PEBCAK

Problem exists between chair and keyboard

PEBCAK is a piece of slang that’s often used in computer-related discussions. It’s a way of saying that the problem with a computer isn’t the machine itself, but the person using it. Imagine someone who can’t get online, not because there’s an issue with their computer, but because they’ve unintentionally disconnected their internet. That’s a PEBCAK situation.

This term is commonly seen in online platforms like tech forums. When someone describes a problem that doesn’t seem to add up, another user might comment, “Looks like we’ve got a PEBCAK on our hands.” This is their way of suggesting the person might be the cause of the problem, not the computer.

However, PEBCAK isn’t just used to explain situations. Some people also use it as a kind of joke or tease. Let’s say your buddy is complaining about helping his dad with computer issues. He might say, “My dad is such a PEBCAK. He doesn’t even know how to quit a program.” So, PEBCAK can also be a lighthearted way of poking fun at someone’s tech skills.

Example for using ‘PEBCAK’ in a conversation

Related Slang Words You Might Be Interested In

Slang	Meaning
TANSTAAFL	There ain't no such thing as a free lunch
YBS	You'll be sorry
ABCP	A bad computer professional
IDHI	I don't have it
Awks	Awks equals to Awkward