spend time on the computer

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "spend time on the computer" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you are talking about someone or yourself taking time out of their day to use a computer. For example: I like to spend time on the computer to relax after a long day.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

Don't let them spend time on the computer.

The New York Times

While it's tempting to spend time on the computer before bed, you will sleep less if you do this.

WikiHow

Before you know it, you're stealing away to spend time on the computer and whisper sweet nothings into your beloved's ear; love has transcended the border between digital and analogue life.

The Guardian - Opinion

Re "On the Trail of the Holy Grail" (June 24): Chinese immigrants who want their children to get into Stuyvesant High School are advised "to create a controlled, almost sterile learning environment" and not to let their children watch television or spend time on the computer.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

You're always spending time on the computer.' But the Internet is my refuge".

The New York Times - Magazine

Sport and stars notwithstanding, ratings are likely to go on falling, not just because of new television services, but also because television viewing is falling as children and teenagers increasingly spend time on computer games and the Internet.

The Economist

Assure them that all homework and chores will be done before you spend time on Facebook or the computer in general.

WikiHow

Just realize most libraries have computers, so have a strategy to avoid spending time on the computers there.

WikiHow

Research from the Kaiser Family Foundation shows that young Americans are watching more television even as they spend more time on the computer.

The Economist

'If you don't want your children to play out alone and you have not got the time to take them out then they will spend more time on the computer.' Voce pointed out how irrational some of these decisions were.

The Guardian

A survey by Viacom unit MTV Networks recently found that Hispanics watch less TV and spend more time on the computer than African-Americans and Caucasians.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing technology use, be specific about the purpose. Instead of just saying "spend time on the computer", specify "spend time on the computer programming" or "spend time on the computer researching." This provides more context and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "spend time on the computer" as a blanket statement. Consider the specific activities involved. Are you gaming, working, or socializing? Being precise enhances communication and prevents misunderstandings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "spend time on the computer" functions as a verbal phrase, indicating the action of dedicating time to using a computer. Ludwig shows that it's used to describe how individuals allocate their time to computer-related activities.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

35%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "spend time on the computer" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe the act of dedicating time to computer use. Ludwig's analysis shows that it is most frequently found in news and media, wiki, and science contexts. While versatile, it's best practice to be specific about the activities involved to avoid overgeneralization. When needed, consider using alternatives such as "use the computer" or "work on the computer" for different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

use the computer

This alternative is more concise and neutral, suitable for general contexts.

work on the computer

This alternative emphasizes work-related activities performed on the computer.

be on the computer

This is a more casual alternative, suggesting a general state of using the computer.

engage with the computer

This alternative highlights interaction and active involvement with the computer.

dedicate time to the computer

This alternative emphasizes a conscious decision to allocate time for computer use.

allocate time for computer use

Focuses on the act of planning or scheduling computer time.

devote time to the computer

Implies a significant amount of time dedicated to the computer, often for a specific purpose.

log time on the computer

Common in professional settings to track work hours.

operate the computer

Implies actively controlling or managing the computer's functions.

access the computer

This alternative focuses on the act of gaining entry or using the computer's resources.

FAQs

How can I replace "spend time on the computer" in a formal context?

In formal settings, consider alternatives like "dedicate time to computer" or "allocate time for computer use" to maintain a professional tone.

Is it better to say "use the computer" or "spend time on the computer"?

The choice depends on the context. "Use the computer" is more general and neutral, while "spend time on the computer" implies a duration. For example, "I use the computer for work," versus "I spend several hours on the computer each day."

What are the negative connotations of "spend time on the computer"?

The phrase can sometimes imply excessive or unproductive use. To avoid this, specify the purpose, such as "spend time on the computer for research" or "spend time on the computer learning".

How has the amount of time people "spend time on the computer" changed over the years?

Studies show a significant increase in time spent on computers, especially among younger generations, driven by factors like remote work, online education, and digital entertainment. This trend is reflected in the increasing frequency of the phrase in various contexts.