log on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "log on" is correct in written English.
This phrase is usually used to describe the action of connecting to a computer system, either online or a local network. For example, "I need to log on to my work computer to access the customer database."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Log on right away.

WikiHow

Log on to Fandango.

The New Yorker

Just log on.

The New York Times

I've got to log on?

The New Yorker

I log on to Skype.

The Guardian - Opinion

Log on to find out.

The New York Times

Wisely, he does not log on.

Independent

Just don't log on before bedtime.

The New York Times - Travel

Who log on everyday.

TechCrunch

Log on, update your preferences.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Launch Log-on Controller.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "log on" when referring to the action of gaining access to a computer system or online service by providing credentials. Ensure the context clearly indicates the system or service being accessed.

Common error

Avoid using "log on" as a noun. "Login" is the noun that refers to the username and password or the act of logging in. "Log on" should only be used as a verb.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "log on" functions as an intransitive verb, indicating the action of gaining access to a computer system or network. Ludwig provides several examples illustrating this function, such as "Log on to Facebook" or "Just log on before bedtime."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Wiki

48%

News & Media

38%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "log on" is a common phrasal verb used to describe gaining access to a computer system or online service. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and widely understood. While often interchangeable with "log in", it's essential to remember that "log on" functions as a verb, while "login" serves as the related noun. Predominantly found in Wiki and News & Media sources, its usage spans from instructional guides to everyday online contexts. Alternative phrases such as "sign in" or, more formally, "authenticate" can be used depending on the desired tone and context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sign in

This alternative is a direct synonym, often used interchangeably with "log on" to describe accessing an account.

access the system

This alternative broadens the scope to any system, not just online accounts.

enter credentials

This alternative focuses on the action of providing login details.

authenticate

This is a more formal and technical term for verifying identity and gaining access.

connect to the network

This alternative focuses on the initial connection to a network, which may be a prerequisite for logging on.

go online

This alternative emphasizes the act of becoming connected to the internet before logging into a specific service.

start a session

This refers to beginning an interactive period with a computer system or application.

establish a connection

This describes the creation of a pathway for data transmission before or during the login process.

validate user identity

This emphasizes the process of verifying the user's credentials before granting access.

gain entry

This is a more general phrase that can apply to various types of access, not just computer systems.

FAQs

What is the difference between "log on" and "log in"?

Both "log on" and "log in" are phrasal verbs that mean to gain access to a computer system or online account. They are largely interchangeable, although "log in" is perhaps slightly more common in contemporary usage.

What's the noun form of "log on"?

The noun form is "login", referring to the act of logging in or the credentials used to do so. For example, "What's your login for this website?"

Is it correct to say "I'm logging on to the internet"?

Yes, it is correct. It means you are connecting to the internet by entering your credentials or by simply initiating a connection. However, it's more common to say "I'm connecting to the internet" or "I'm "going online"".

What can I say instead of "log on" to sound more formal?

In a more formal context, you could use "authenticate" or "access the system". These alternatives convey a more professional tone.