access the computer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "access the computer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of gaining entry to a computer system or device, typically to use its resources or data. Example: "In order to complete the project, you will need to access the computer in the lab."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

A password can be stolen and used to access the computer network remotely, Dhanjani said.

The Washington Post

Again: That Assange couldn't provide the password that generated the right hash, allowing Manning to access the computer, doesn't matter.

The Washington Post

The third party is not authorized to access the computer because the access is not within the delegated authorization given to the account holder.

The Washington Post

Through activation of this "backdoor" access, the computer becomes a "bot," or zombie, allowing a remote malware user to perform any action that the computer owner could on the infected computer.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Customers who want to use their handsets on a different network must circumvent the locking software to access the computer program that allows the phone to operate (mobile firmware).

Stanford University

A powerful committee of MPs has written to Trevor Pearce, the agency's director-general, seeking its response to suggestions that Soca investigators knew that criminal PIs were going to unlawfully access the computer of Ian Hurst – yet did nothing to stop them.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

The rebels found personal details needed to access the computers on notes among their captives' belongings.

The Times

Fifteen people have already been trained in IT skills so they can access the computers at the resource centre.

The Guardian

FOREIGN officials, Mr. Baquet said, are constantly telling him, "We need more English so that we can access the computers".

The New York Times

Hacking Team is one of a number of security firms that sell surveillance technology and malware to national governments, enabling them to access the computers of their targets.

The Guardian - Tech

Mr Nascimento denied he had driven outside the CCTV coverage range to search the bags and to try and access the computers.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions, use "access the computer" to clearly indicate the initial step of gaining entry, before detailing specific tasks.

Common error

Be careful not to use "access" and "use" interchangeably. "Access" implies gaining entry or connection, while "use" implies actively operating the computer. For example, you can "access the computer" to then "use" a specific application.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "access the computer" functions as a verb phrase where "access" is the verb and "the computer" is the direct object. It describes the action of gaining entry or connecting to a computer system. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is grammatically correct and commonly found.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

22%

Science

22%

Less common in

Academia

11%

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "access the computer" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase used to describe the act of gaining entry to a computer system. As Ludwig AI points out, this usage is well-established and versatile. It is most frequently found in news articles, wikis and scientific publications, with a neutral tone suitable for both technical and general contexts. While alternatives like "log into the computer" or "gain access to the computer system" exist, "access the computer" provides a concise and readily understood way to convey this action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

log into the computer

Replaces "access" with a more specific verb indicating the act of logging in.

gain access to the computer system

Adds "system" to specify what kind of computer is being accessed.

get into the computer

Uses a more informal and direct phrasing.

connect to the computer

Focuses on establishing a connection with the computer.

use the computer

Emphasizes the act of using the computer rather than just gaining access.

enter the computer

Implies gaining entry, possibly with credentials.

browse the computer

Implies looking through files or data stored on the computer.

operate the computer

Focuses on the act of operating or controlling the computer.

reach the computer

Highlights the ability to reach or connect with the computer remotely or otherwise.

interface with the computer

Emphasizes interacting with the computer.

FAQs

What is another way to say "access the computer"?

Alternatives include "log into the computer", "connect to the computer", or "gain access to the computer system" depending on the context.

How do I use "access the computer" in a sentence?

You can use it to describe the action of gaining entry to a computer system. Example: "To begin the training, you must first access the computer with your assigned credentials."

Is there a more formal way to say "access the computer"?

A more formal alternative is "gain access to the computer system". This phrasing is suitable for technical documentation or professional communication.

What is the difference between "access the computer" and "use the computer"?

"Access the computer" refers to gaining entry, while "use the computer" refers to utilizing its functions after access is granted. You first access it and then use it.