contactless
Relating to or denoting payments, tickets, or security systems that use RFID or NFC technology to complete a transaction without physical contact.
Specifically refers to technology that allows interaction (usually payment) without touching a device, often by tapping or waving a card/phone.
Word relationships
- tap-and-go: More informal, describes the action rather than the technology.
- chip-and-PIN: Requires inserting a card and entering a PIN.
- swipe: Requires physically swiping a card.
Commonly confused with
- online payment: Online payment is done remotely over the internet; 'contactless' payment is typically done physically at a terminal without touching it.
Word family
- contact (noun): The state or condition of touching.
Collocations
- contactless payment
- contactless card
- contactless technology
- contactless reader
Example sentences
- "Many credit cards now offer contactless payment, allowing you to simply tap your card on the reader." Modern payment methods.
- "The new transit system uses contactless cards, making boarding much faster." Public transport systems.
- "To minimize germ spread, the store encouraged all customers to use contactless payment options." During a pandemic, this method became very popular.
Memory hook
Think of 'CONTACT-LESS' as 'less contact' than traditional methods, like a quick tap instead of a long insertion. Tap, no touch
When not to use
Do not use 'contactless' to describe something that simply doesn't involve physical touch if it's not related to the specific technology (e.g., 'a contactless conversation' is incorrect).
Fun facts
- The first widely adopted contactless payment system was the 'Oyster card' for public transport in London, introduced in 2003.
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