log

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "log" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in various contexts, such as referring to a record of events, data, or activities. Example: "Please log your hours worked each week in the time tracking system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Tech

Travel

Lifestyle

Books

Film

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To participate you need to register for a Guardian ID and log in prior to the discussion.

The Guardian

Then students can log in and embed new media onto the image.

The Guardian

This will require you to type in a code (usually sent to your phone via SMS) when you try to log in to your account from a new location.

The Guardian - Tech

With a log, he began beating Nekolina's father-in-law across the chest and back and continued until he was dead.

The Guardian

In a high-brow equivalent of cash in the attic, the 92-year-old says he is selling the medal because it is just taking up space in his log cabin.

The Guardian

In the last three years, Britain has seen an explosion of low-key, home-grown holiday options, from tipis in Welsh valleys offering comforts normally associated with a boutique hotel to environmentally-sound log cabins in forests.

The Guardian - Travel

The yacht's log is also being sold in the same lot as the film.

The Guardian

Jemima Kiss, head of technology, said: "It's well established that the quality and constructiveness of comments increases immediately with a real-name log in.

The Guardian - Opinion

He placed his toothpaste and brush on a log at the foot of the steps; and later forgot where he had left them.

The Guardian - Books

A: You need to be logged in to post comments, so that could be it, though you are usually prompted to log in if for some reason you've been signed out.

The Guardian

You will no longer be able to log in to guardian.co.uk once a registered profile has been deleted.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "log" in technical contexts, ensure clarity by specifying the type of log (e.g., server log, system log, access log) to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "log" interchangeably with similar words like "record" or "register" without considering the specific nuance each conveys. "Log" often implies a chronological or systematic recording, whereas "record" is more general.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "log" varies depending on context. It functions as a noun referring to a record, or a piece of wood, as shown in Ludwig. As a verb, it signifies the act of recording something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Tech

20%

Travel

10%

Less common in

Lifestyle

10%

Books

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "log" is a versatile term functioning as both a noun and a verb, widely used across diverse contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and commonly employed. Whether referring to a chronological record of events, a piece of timber, or the action of recording information, understanding its context is key to accurate usage. Ludwig's examples from reputable sources like The Guardian and The Economist demonstrate its prevalence in News & Media, Tech, and Travel. By following best practices and avoiding common errors, writers can effectively leverage "log" in their communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

record

Emphasizes the act of documenting or noting something down.

register

Focuses on formally entering information into a system or list.

document

Highlights the creation of a formal record.

note

Refers to making a brief record of something.

journal

Implies keeping a detailed, ongoing record of events or thoughts.

chronicle

Suggests recording events in chronological order.

catalogue

Focuses on systematically listing items or information.

archive

Implies storing records for future reference.

index

Highlights the creation of a list to facilitate retrieval of information.

tabulate

Focuses on arranging data in a table.

FAQs

How can I use "log" in a sentence?

You can use "log" as a noun to refer to a record of events or activities, or as a verb meaning to record something in a log. For example: "The system automatically keeps a "system log" of all user activity", or "Please "log your hours" daily".

What can I say instead of "log"?

Alternatives to "log" include "record", "register", or "document", depending on the specific context. If you are referring to a piece of wood, you might also use "timber" or "lumber".

What's the difference between "log" and "record"?

"Log" often suggests a chronological and systematic recording of events, especially in technical or operational contexts. "Record", on the other hand, is a more general term for any type of documented information.

Which is correct, "log in" or "login"?

"Log in" is a phrasal verb (two words), while "login" is a noun or adjective. For example, "You need to log in to access the system" (verb), versus "Enter your login details" (noun).