PEBCAC
Problem exists between chair and computer
Example
Hey, did you figure out why Karen’s printer wasn’t working? She said it was completely broken
Yep. Classic PEBCAC. She never plugged it in
How some users react to PEBCAC issues
Related Slang
| PEBCAK | Problem exists between chair and keyboard |
| PEBKAC | Problem exists between keyboard and chair |
| PICNIC | Problem in chair, not in computer |
| ABCP | A bad computer professional |
| comp | Computer |
| Facepalm | To place your palm on your face in embarrassment |
| Headdesk | Extreme frustration |
| BSoD | Blue screen of death |
| PC | Personal computer |
| JASE | Just another system error |
| Brain fart | Brief absence of intelligence |
How well do you know your Fantasy Football slang?
PEBCAC is an acronym often used in IT and tech support circles to describe user-caused issues. It is a variation of PEBKAC that suggests the error isn't with the hardware or software but with the person operating the device. PEBCAC became popular in the early 2000s during the rise of widespread home computer use, when tech support teams often encountered basic user errors being reported as system failures.
While some IT professionals still use PEBCAC as a shorthand way to categorize avoidable mistakes, it's often said with humor, or sometimes frustration, behind the scenes. People typically don't use it directly with users, as they will likely perceive it as dismissive or insulting.