Teens and Computers

go on

I go on the computer a lot.

In this example 'go on the computer' is similar to 'use the computer.'  Notice the following:

1. My kids go on the computer for one hour after school.
   
2. I need to go on the internet.
   

keep in touch

I keep in touch with friends from my hometown.

When you 'keep in touch' with someone you continue to be in contact with them.  Notice the following:

1. She isn't good at keeping in touch.
   
2. We can keep in touch through e-mail.
   

old friends

Using the computer is a good way to keep in touch with old friends.

'Old friends' are people that you maybe don't see or talk to very much, but they have been your friends for a long time. Notice the following:

1. They are old friends. They've known each other since elementary school.
   
2. I am going out with some old friends tonight.
   

pick up

I've picked up most of what I know through the years.

In this case 'pick up' is similar to 'learn.'  We can use 'pick up' when we learn something without taking special classes, when it happens naturally.  Notice the following:

1. Where did you pick up that phrase?
   
2. We picked up a little Italian when we were living there.
   

screw up

I want a new computer because I think I screwed up mine.

When we 'screw up' we make a mistake.  In this case it means that the mistake has caused problems for the computer. Notice the following:

1. She screwed up her back playing volleyball.
   
2. I screwed up the recipe for the cake.