Virtual vs. Digital — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on October 24, 2023
"Virtual" refers to something simulated or extended by computer software, while "digital" pertains to data expressed using digits, typically binary code.
Difference Between Virtual and Digital
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
"Virtual" and "digital" are terms commonly used in the realm of technology, yet they have distinct definitions. "Virtual" typically denotes something that isn't physically present but is simulated or emulated by software. For instance, a virtual meeting happens online rather than in person. On the other hand, "digital" is a term that speaks to information represented by digits, especially binary digits.
The rise of technology has seen the increased usage of both "virtual" and "digital" terminologies. A virtual classroom offers an environment where learners and educators interact through digital tools without being in the same physical space. Conversely, digital textbooks are electronic versions of printed books, emphasizing the format in which they are presented.
While both "virtual" and "digital" may sometimes be used interchangeably, they bear different implications. Virtual reality, for example, provides users with a simulated three-dimensional environment, allowing immersion in an experience that feels real but isn't. Digital reality might be seen as an umbrella term that includes various electronically generated realities, whether they're simulations like virtual reality or augmentations of the real world.
Understanding the distinctions between "virtual" and "digital" becomes crucial in specific industries. For example, in the music realm, a virtual instrument is software that emulates the sound of an actual instrument. In contrast, digital music refers to music that is stored and played back using digital technology, replacing the analog formats of the past.
While "virtual" leans towards simulation and emulation, "digital" leans towards the format of information. However, as technology continues to evolve, the lines between the two can sometimes blur, making it essential to grasp each term's context and specific meaning.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
Pertains to simulation or emulation.
Relates to information in digital form.
Usage
Refers to non-physical presence.
Refers to data expressed as digits.
Common Context
Virtual meetings, virtual reality.
Digital media, digital devices.
Relation to Tech
Software-created simulations.
Electronic representation of data.
Real vs. Virtual
Can be a simulation of a real object.
Represents actual data in digital form.
Compare with Definitions
Virtual
Simulated by a computer for reasons of economics or flexibility.
He learned to fly using a virtual simulator.
Digital
Involving or relating to the use of computer technology.
The digital age has changed how we access information.
Virtual
Having the essence or effect without the actual form.
She's the virtual leader of the group, even if not officially so.
Digital
Displayed in numerical digits rather than by a pointer or hands.
She checks the time on her digital watch.
Virtual
Existing or resulting in essence or effect though not in actual fact, form, or name
The virtual extinction of the buffalo.
Digital
Of, relating to, or using data in the form of numerical digits.
Digital communication involves sending messages through electronic means.
Virtual
Existing in the mind, especially as a product of the imagination. Used in literary criticism of a text.
Digital
Relating to or performed with the fingers;
Digital examination
Virtual
Existing as or by means of digital media
A virtual classroom.
Digital
Relating to or resembling a digit, especially a finger.
Virtual
Relating to or existing in virtual reality
A virtual encounter in a chatroom.
Digital
Operated or done with the fingers
A digital switch.
Virtual
Emulating the function of another system or device.
Digital
Having digits.
Virtual
In effect or essence, if not in fact or reality; imitated, simulated.
In fact a defeat on the battlefield, Tet was a virtual victory for the North, owing to its effect on public opinion.
Virtual addressing allows applications to believe that there is much more physical memory than actually exists.
Digital
Expressed in discrete numerical form, especially for use by a computer or other electronic device
Digital information.
Virtual
Having the power of acting or of invisible efficacy without the agency of the material or measurable part; potential.
Digital
Relating to or being a device that can generate, record, process, receive, transmit, or display information that is represented in discrete numerical form.
Virtual
Nearly, almost. (A relatively recent development in meaning)
The angry peasants were a virtual army as they attacked the castle.
Digital
Relating to or being a service that provides information expressed in discrete numerical form
We subscribe to digital cable.
Virtual
Simulated in a computer or online.
The virtual world of his computer game allowed character interaction.
Digital
Relating to or being a profession or activity that is performed using digital devices
A digital librarian.
Digital photography.
Virtual
Operating by computer or in cyberspace; not physically present.
A virtual assistant
A virtual personal trainer
Digital
Using or giving a reading in digits
A digital clock.
Virtual
Capable of being overridden with a different implementation in a subclass.
Digital
Characterized by widespread use of computers
Living in the digital age.
Virtual
(physics) Pertaining to particles in temporary existence due to the Heisenberg uncertainty principle.
Digital
A key played with the finger, as on a piano.
Virtual
A virtual member function of a class.
Digital
Having to do with digits (fingers or toes); performed with a finger.
Virtual
(gambling) A computer simulation of a real-world sport such as horse racing.
Digital
Property of representing values as discrete, often binary, numbers rather than a continuous spectrum.
Digital computer
Digital clock
Virtual
Having the power of acting or of invisible efficacy without the agency of the material or sensible part; potential; energizing.
Heat and cold have a virtual transition, without communication of substance.
Every kind that lives,Fomented by his virtual power, and warmed.
Digital
Of or relating to computers or the Information Age.
Digital payment systems are replacing cash transactions.
Virtual
Being in essence or effect, not in fact; as, the virtual presence of a man in his agent or substitute.
A thing has a virtual existence when it has all the conditions necessary to its actual existence.
To mask by slight differences in the manners a virtual identity in the substance.
Digital
(finance) A digital option.
Virtual
Being actually such in almost every respect;
A practical failure
The once elegant temple lay in virtual ruin
Digital
(uncountable) Digital equipment or technology.
He moved to digital for the first time, using a Sony camera.
Virtual
Being such in essence or effect though not in actual fact;
A virtual dependence on charity
A virtual revolution
Virtual reality
Digital
(music) Any of the keys of a piano or similar instrument.
Virtual
Existing or occurring on computers or on the internet.
We attended a virtual conference last week.
Digital
A finger.
Virtual
Nearly or almost.
It was a virtual disaster.
Digital
Of or pertaining to the fingers; done with the fingers; as, digital compression; digital examination.
Virtual
Not physically existing but made to appear so by software.
They explored ancient Rome through a virtual tour.
Digital
Of or pertaining to digits{3}; expressed in digits{3}, or using digits{3}; as, a digital display; a digital clock.
Digital
Performing internal logical and arithmetic operations by means of digits, usually represented as binary numbers. Contrasted to analog, wherein variables are represented as coninuous physical quantities such as voltages or the position of a pointer on a continuous scale; as, a digital computer.
Digital
Of a circuit or device that represents magnitudes in digits;
Digital computer
Digital
Displaying numbers rather than scale positions;
Digital clock
Digital readout
Digital
Of or relating to the fingers or digits.
He has a digital deformity.
Digital
Using or characterized by computer technology.
The world has experienced a digital revolution.
Common Curiosities
How is "digital music" different from traditional music?
Digital music is stored and played using digital technology, while traditional music might use analog formats.
Are "virtual" and "digital" synonyms?
No, while related in technology contexts, "virtual" often means simulated, and "digital" pertains to data in digit form.
What does "virtual" mean outside tech contexts?
Outside tech, "virtual" can mean "almost" or "nearly," like "a virtual certainty."
Are all digital things virtual?
No, while many digital things can be part of virtual systems, not all digital items are virtual.
Is "virtual learning" the same as "digital learning"?
No, virtual learning often refers to online classrooms, while digital learning can involve any educational technology.
Are photographs digital?
If taken with a digital camera or stored electronically, they are digital. Traditional film photographs are not.
Can something be both virtual and digital?
Yes, a virtual classroom can use digital tools for interaction.
What's a "virtual reality"?
Virtual reality is a simulated, immersive environment created using computer technology.
Can a meeting be both virtual and digital?
Yes, a virtual meeting conducted online uses digital tools and platforms.
Is a "digital clock" virtual?
No, a digital clock displays time using numbers, but it isn't a simulation or emulation.
Can something be "virtually real"?
Yes, it means it's so close to being real that it's almost indistinguishable, especially in simulated environments.
What's an example of a "virtual" experience?
Virtual gaming, where players enter a computer-generated environment.
How do digital devices store data?
Digital devices store data using binary code, represented by 0s and 1s.
How has "virtual" technology impacted social interaction?
Virtual technology, like social media, has allowed for global interactions but also raised concerns about authentic human connections.
How has the digital era impacted businesses?
The digital era has enabled online transactions, marketing, and global reach for businesses.
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Written by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
