back on the computer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "back on the computer" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to returning to using a computer after a break or interruption. Example: "After a short lunch break, I was back on the computer to finish my work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Microsoft said sanctions proposed by the states would "turn the clock back on the computer industry".

The New York Times

I'll go home after a full workday, catch up with my kids for a few hours, read them a bedtime story and then I'm back on the computer.

The Guardian

You will also need to have the original installation discs for any programs you want to put back on the computer after the upgrade, as the Windows Easy Transfer program only saves things like user account info, documents, photos, music, videos, e-mail and browser bookmarks.

The New York Times

Take Sally (all names have been changed), who has to travel most weeks and still make time for her four children; or Anne, who after a full day at work is back on the computer at 9pm every night for another three hours; or the banker who worked round the clock for six weeks to close a deal, missing Thanksgiving and Christmas in the process.

The Guardian

A more serious issue showed up on the back on the computer.

TechCrunch

Such a concentration of prestigious brands in the mobile-app realm doesn't mean the industry has turned its back on the computer desktop.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

HDMI ports are typically located on the back of the computer, though some laptops have them on the side.

WikiHow

On an iMac it is found on the back of the computer near the left bottom corner.

WikiHow

On desktops, you'll find the Power button on the back of the computer.

WikiHow

Power down the computer and turn the power switch off on the power supply, which is typically situated on the back of the computer tower near the AC power cord.

WikiHow

If your computer has USB ports on the front and back, connect to a port on the back of the computer.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "back on the computer" to clearly indicate a return to computer-related tasks after an interruption or break. It conveys a sense of resumption and focus.

Common error

Avoid using "back on the computer" without providing context. If the reader doesn't know you were previously using a computer, the phrase loses its meaning. Instead, briefly mention the preceding activity for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "back on the computer" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating a return to using a computer. It commonly acts as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, describing when or how someone resumes their computer-related activities. Examples from Ludwig illustrate this, showing contexts where individuals are resuming tasks.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "back on the computer" is a grammatically sound and acceptably common prepositional phrase used to indicate a return to computer-related activities. According to Ludwig, this phrase is primarily found in News & Media and Wiki contexts, and it serves to communicate the resumption of computer usage after an interruption. While Ludwig AI confirms its correctness, it's essential to provide sufficient context to avoid ambiguity. Related phrases like "returning to the computer" or "back at the keyboard" offer alternative ways to express the same idea. Consider the writing guidance to maximize clarity and effectiveness in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

returning to the computer

Focuses on the act of going back to the computer.

back to using the computer

Directly states the resumption of computer usage.

resuming computer work

Highlights the continuation of work-related activities on the computer.

back at the keyboard

Emphasizes the physical aspect of interacting with the computer.

restarting computer-based tasks

Specifically mentions the start of tasks that rely on a computer.

engaged in computer activities

Describes being involved in various tasks on the computer.

computer-focused once more

Highlights the shift back to being focused on computer-related activities.

re-immersed in computer tasks

Suggests a deeper level of focus and engagement with computer work.

re-engaged with the computer

Highlights the renewed connection with the computer after a break.

settling back into computer mode

Implies a return to a state of mind conducive to computer use.

FAQs

How can I use "back on the computer" in a sentence?

You can say, "After dinner, I got "back on the computer" to finish my report" or "She took a break, but she's "back on the computer" now, working on the presentation".

What is an alternative to "back on the computer"?

Alternatives include "returning to the computer", "resuming computer work", or "back at the keyboard" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "back to the computer" instead of "back on the computer"?

Both are grammatically correct, but "back on the computer" implies active engagement, while "back to the computer" simply indicates a return to its vicinity. The best choice depends on the intended meaning.

What does ""back on the computer"" imply about someone's activity?

It suggests the person is actively using the computer to perform tasks, work, or engage in online activities after being away from it.