sign on

USAGE SUMMARY

"sign on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to creating an account or logging in to something. For example, "I need to sign on to the website to access my account."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

(Connecticut may sign on soon).

The New York Times

Thus, when you sign on Passport Advantage you sign on as a company customer.

WikiHow

Sign on one of the gray lines.

WikiHow

sign on its roof.

The New York Times

Why did they sign on?

The New York Times

— Sign on the front door.

The New Yorker

Ugly sign on the new fish restaurant?

The Guardian

There is a sign on the highway.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Sign on-line guestbook: www.edressler.com.

The New York Times

Please sign on-line guest book: www.edressler.com.

The New York Times

What's Your Sign-On?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to digital access, consider using "log in" or "sign in" instead of "sign on" for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "sign on" interchangeably with "sign up" in all contexts. "Sign up" generally refers to the initial act of registering, whereas "sign on" can refer to logging in or formally agreeing to something.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sign on" primarily functions as a verb phrase, often used intransitively. It denotes the action of logging into a system, enlisting for a cause, or formally agreeing to participate in something. Ludwig AI validates its correct and frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "sign on" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe actions like logging into systems, enlisting for causes, or formally agreeing to participate in something. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While its register varies from neutral to professional depending on the context, it's crucial to differentiate its usage from similar phrases like "sign up". Understanding these nuances ensures clear and effective communication. Common errors include using "sign on" and "sign up" interchangeably, so pay attention to the context to select the appropriate phrase.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

log in

Specifies the action of accessing a system or account with credentials.

register

Focuses on the act of formally enrolling or creating an account.

enroll

Similar to register, but can also imply joining an educational program.

join up

Suggests becoming a member of a group or team.

enlist

Implies joining an organization or cause, often with a formal agreement.

become a member

Emphasizes the act of acquiring membership in an organization.

commit to

Highlights the dedication and agreement to support something.

subscribe

Indicates signing up for a service or publication, often with a recurring fee.

agree to participate

A more formal way of expressing consent to be involved in something.

affiliate with

Suggests associating oneself with a particular group or organization.

FAQs

What is the difference between "sign on" and "sign up"?

"Sign up" typically refers to the initial act of registering for a service or account. "Sign on" can mean logging in to an existing account or formally agreeing to something. Use "sign up" when creating a new account and "sign on" when accessing an existing one.

How can I use "sign on" in a sentence?

You can use "sign on" to describe logging into a computer system (e.g., "I need to sign on to the network") or formally agreeing to a project (e.g., "The company decided to sign on to the new initiative").

What are some alternatives to "sign on"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "log in", "register", "enlist", or "join".

Is "sign on" formal or informal?

"Sign on" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally more common in professional or technical settings when referring to logging in. In other contexts like enlisting for a cause, it's suitable for a variety of settings.