go on the computer

USAGE SUMMARY

'go on the computer' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to someone accessing a computer or opening a computer application. For example: I need to go on the computer to write an email.

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

If he likes to play video games or go on the computer, limit it to either an hour a day or one day a week.

WikiHow

A lot of kids go on the computer.

The New York Times

"You go on the computer and they don't even say it's the Ramapough Mountain Indians.

The New Yorker

"I worry it's going to be like this all summer, just sitting here bored with nothing to do but text or go on the computer," she said.

The New York Times

Sometimes I'll watch TV, or I'll go on the computer again, or just sit there and relax, have a glass of wine.

The New York Times

"Even when I'm in the house now, I find it easier to go on the Ogo rather than go on the computer," she said.

The New York Times - Tech

"They want to go on the computer and read about products that they're eating," he added, "so it's a natural way to connect with them".

The New York Times

Sometimes when I call and tell them I need to speak to customer service, they tell me to go on the computer.

The Guardian - Money

"I just let myself in, and most of the time I go on the computer and play video games," she said.

The New York Times

Doctors prepared him for a quadruple bypass, and, just days after the operation, Edith Mossberg recalls, "he had to go on the computer and check out the cardiologist and surgeons".

The New Yorker

I've been known to sleep until 2 p.m. Then I go on the computer, in my pajamas, and play Call of Duty until somebody — usually it's my mom — makes breakfast for me.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "go on the computer" when you want to describe the general action of starting to use a computer for any purpose. It is an informal and easily understood way to express this idea.

Common error

While it's grammatically sound, avoid using unnecessarily complex alternatives when "go on the computer" suffices. Overly formal options can sound unnatural in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "go on the computer" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of starting to use a computer. It is commonly used to describe initiating a session or activity on a computer, as evidenced by the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

47%

News & Media

42%

Science

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "go on the computer" is a common and generally accepted phrase for describing the act of starting to use a computer. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It is most frequently found in informal contexts such as WikiHow and news articles, as well as in Science related articles. While grammatically sound, it's best suited for everyday conversation. For more formal writing, alternatives like "access the computer" or "use the computer" may be more appropriate. The phrase serves the purpose of simply describing or reporting one is accessing and utilizing a computer.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get on the computer

A simple synonymous variation, replacing "go" with "get".

use the computer

This alternative replaces the phrasal verb "go on" with the more direct verb "use", maintaining the same meaning.

access the computer

This phrase emphasizes the act of gaining entry to the computer's system or resources.

use a computer

A general, slightly less idiomatic way to describe computer use.

operate the computer

This alternative suggests a more active and intentional use of the computer.

log on to the computer

This phrase highlights the act of logging in or gaining authorized access to the computer.

work on the computer

This implies engaging in tasks or activities using the computer.

engage with the computer

Implies a deeper, more involved interaction with the computer.

start using the computer

Adds emphasis to starting the action of using the computer.

browse the internet

A more specific action, but still implies usage of computer.

FAQs

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

You can use "go on the computer" to describe the action of starting to use a computer. For example, "I need to "use the computer" to check my email", or "After dinner, he likes to "use the computer" to play games".

What is a simple alternative to "go on the computer"?

A simple alternative is to say "use the computer". It's a direct and easily understood way to express the same idea.

Is it more formal to say "access the computer" instead of "go on the computer"?

Yes, "access the computer" is generally more formal than "go on the computer". "Go on the computer" is more casual and suitable for everyday conversation.

When should I use "log on to the computer" instead of "go on the computer"?

Use "log on to the computer" when you specifically want to emphasize the action of logging in or gaining authorized access to a computer system. "Go on the computer" is more general.