did he sign

USAGE SUMMARY

'did he sign' is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when asking a question. Example sentence: "Did he sign the form to authorize the transaction?".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Only then did he sign.

The New York Times

Did he sign off on the statement?

The Washington Post

And when did he sign the order?

The New York Times

Did he sign the consent form?

The New York Times

"If he was sick, how did he sign it?

The New York Times

Did he sign the Official Secrets Act? "Several times, probably".

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

While Kallen concluded that it did, he signed a memorandum on Dec. 30, 2004, that legally, because of the insertion of "Footnote 8," allowed for the opposite interpretation.

The New York Times - Books

"Does he sign a repeal bill if it reaches his desk?

Huffington Post

When he's done, he signs it, "Loretta".

Huffington Post

Did he really sign up Benazir Bhutto just to impress Salman?

The Guardian - Books

Did he really sign this advert off?

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "did he sign", ensure the context clearly indicates what document or agreement is being referred to. This avoids ambiguity and ensures your question is easily understood.

Common error

Avoid assuming that "signing" automatically implies complete agreement or understanding. Someone might sign a document without fully grasping its implications, so consider whether further clarification is needed beyond just confirming the signature.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "did he sign" serves as an interrogative clause, specifically designed to elicit a yes/no answer regarding whether a particular individual performed the action of signing something. This function is evident in Ludwig's examples, which showcase the phrase being used to inquire about the signing of contracts, consent forms, or official documents.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Encyclopedias

10%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Science

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "did he sign" is a grammatically sound and frequently used interrogative, primarily employed to confirm whether someone has formally signed a document or agreement. According to Ludwig AI, it is correct and usable in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media, its neutral register allows it to fit seamlessly into both formal and informal settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines what is being signed to avoid ambiguity. While the phrase is common and easily understood, be aware that signing does not always equate to full comprehension or agreement with the document's contents. Considering the frequency of usage of the phrase, it is clear that this phrase has a high acceptance. Overall, the phrase is effective for its intended purpose of seeking confirmation of a signature.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

did he put his name to it

More informal and emphasizes personal commitment through signing.

was he a signatory

Focuses on the role as a signer rather than the act of signing itself.

has he signed off on

Suggests approval of something, possibly after review.

did he endorse

Implies a stronger level of agreement or approval than simply signing.

did he append his signature

A more formal way of asking if he added his signature.

was his signature affixed

Formal and passive way of asking if a signature was present.

did he authorize it

Broadly asks if he gave permission, not necessarily through a signature.

did he formally approve

Emphasizes formal approval, which could be through a signature or other means.

did he countersign

Specifically asks if he signed a document already signed by someone else.

did he give his consent

Focuses on whether he gave permission or agreement.

FAQs

How can I use "did he sign" in a sentence?

Use "did he sign" to inquire whether someone has formally agreed to something by placing their signature on a document. For example, "Did he sign the contract before the deadline?"

What is a more formal alternative to "did he sign"?

A more formal alternative is "Was his signature affixed to...?" or "Did he append his signature to...?"

What does it mean if someone asks, "Did he sign off on it?"

To "sign off on" something implies approval after review. Asking "Did he sign off on it?" means asking if he approved something, potentially after a review process. You can check similar phrases "has he signed off on".

Is there a difference between "did he sign" and "did he endorse"?

"Did he sign" simply asks if a signature was provided, while "did he endorse" implies a stronger level of agreement and support. The phrase "did he endorse" suggests active approval.