board the train

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "board the train" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing or describing the action of getting onto a train. Example: "Passengers are requested to board the train at platform 3 for the 5:00 PM departure."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We board the train.

The New Yorker

The police board the train in search of a killer.

The Guardian - Film

After waiting for more than three hours, they board the train.

The New Yorker

I board the train as if there were chains on my ankles.

The New Yorker

"I have no choice," he said cheerily as he waited to board the train.

The New York Times

The conductor would make an announcement — usually unintelligible — and the officers would board the train.

The New Yorker

11.10am Jeremy Corbyn and his wife, Laura Alvarez, board the train.

The Guardian

Every time the characters board the train, they cry out "Choo choo" in unison.

The New York Times - Arts

"Please give the Liverpool team room to board the train," pleaded the PA announcer.

The Guardian - Sport

SHe didn't dare board the train without him and was left there.

The New Yorker

A rapport is quickly established between the two men, and eventually they board the train together.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions, use "board the train" to clearly indicate the action of getting onto the train, specifying platform or time if needed. For example, "Passengers are requested to board the train at platform 3 for the 5:00 PM departure."

Common error

Avoid using overly casual synonyms like "hop on the train" in formal documents or announcements. Stick to "board the train" or "enter the train" for a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "board the train" primarily functions as a verb phrase, specifically an imperative. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It directs or describes the action of entering a train. Examples include: "Passengers must board the train through one car" and "Visitors board the train at a different point".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

51%

Wiki

25%

Science

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "board the train" is a grammatically correct and frequently used verb phrase that instructs or describes the action of entering a train. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and various sources, particularly News & Media and Wiki, demonstrate its widespread use. While slightly more formal than alternatives like "get on the train", it remains suitable for a range of contexts, from announcements to news reports. Common errors involve using overly casual alternatives in formal settings. To ensure clarity, specify platform details or timings. Top sources include The New York Times, The Guardian and BBC.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get on the train

A more general way to describe entering a train. Simpler phrasing.

get aboard the train

Similar to "get on", but emphasizes the entire vehicle. Slightly more formal.

enter the train

Emphasizes the action of going inside the train. More formal.

step onto the train

Highlights the physical action of stepping onto the train. More descriptive.

mount the train

Implies a slightly elevated or more challenging entry. Less common.

hop on the train

Suggests a quick and casual boarding. More informal.

climb aboard the train

Implies a more difficult or involved boarding process. Slightly more emphatic.

proceed to board the train

Suggests a formal instruction or announcement. More formal.

embarked on the train

Highlights the beginning of a journey. More formal and less common.

make one's way onto the train

Describes the process of moving onto the train, possibly with difficulty. More descriptive and verbose.

FAQs

How can I use "board the train" in a sentence?

You can use "board the train" to describe the act of getting onto a train, for example: "Passengers are now invited to board the train." or "We will board the train as soon as it arrives".

What are some alternatives to "board the train"?

Alternatives include "get on the train", "enter the train", or "step onto the train" depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

Is it correct to say "boarding the train" instead of "board the train"?

"Boarding the train" is a gerund phrase that can be used as a noun (e.g., "Boarding the train was chaotic"). "Board the train" is an imperative, a command or instruction.

What is the difference between "board the train" and "get on the train"?

"Board the train" is slightly more formal and often used in announcements or instructions. "Get on the train" is more informal and commonly used in everyday conversation. Both phrases essentially mean the same thing: to enter a train.