subscribe

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "subscribe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to refer to the act of signing up to receive regular notifications, emails updates or to become a member of a service or organization. For example, "I had to subscribe to the magazine in order to access the website content."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Homes and small offices that want high-speed internet access usually subscribe to either a digital subscriber line (DSL) or a cable-television service.

The Economist

The combination of security and feedback convinced content providers to agree to an "à la carte" model, in which Now subscribers can choose whether or not to subscribe to each individual channel, rather than being forced to pay for a whole bundle.

The Economist

I don't subscribe to the council of cynicism that sees peace as a threat to the SDLP's electoral health.

The Guardian

In a moment I will forced to read the Labour manifesto and subscribe to the Guardian".

The Guardian

"I don't subscribe to the idea that the Fylde will become a rich place if this goes ahead," he says.

The Guardian

I identify as a feminist but subscribe to the pretty basic definition of a feminist as "someone who seeks equality between the sexes".

The Guardian - Music

Guardian and Observer readers abroad are now able to subscribe to the Guardian and Observer domestic editions sent out from the UK.

The Guardian

The treasurer, Joe Hockey, said in his budget speech last month that "there will be no new taxes on superannuation under this government", but he subsequently told the ABC's Q&A program that he did not subscribe to "never ever" statements in politics.

The Guardian

Kath Viner replies: @Dexter2315 - you'll still get full football/soccer coverage... ID155472 says: How much will this cost?- does one subscribe as for the UK digtial edition - I am happy to do this, and will it appear as the typed print edition?

The Guardian

Plepler said the service was aimed at the 10 million people in the US who subscribe to broadband, but don't watch television.

The Guardian

Alternatively, you can subscribe to our Digital Archive service which holds a copy of every Guardian and Observer from the first ever edition up to the year 2000.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking someone to "subscribe" to a service, clearly state the benefits they will receive, such as exclusive content, early access, or special discounts.

Common error

Avoid confusing "subscribe", which means to sign up for or support, with "ascribe", which means to attribute something to a cause. For example, use "subscribe to a newsletter" and "ascribe the error to faulty equipment."

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "subscribe" is as a verb. It is used to describe the action of signing up for a service or publication, or to express agreement with an idea. As Ludwig AI explains, it can also denote contributing to a common fund or agreeing to buy shares.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

30%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the verb "subscribe" is a versatile term used to denote signing up for a service, expressing agreement with a viewpoint, or contributing financially. As stated by Ludwig AI, its various definitions range from receiving publications to supporting theories. It is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in News & Media and Formal & Business contexts, as determined through the analysis of numerous examples. When using "subscribe", it's crucial to differentiate it from similar words like "ascribe" to avoid errors. Furthermore, consider the specific context to ensure clarity, whether referring to a paid service, an ideological stance, or financial contribution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sign up for

Focuses on the act of registering or joining a service or platform.

enrol in

Emphasizes the action of formally registering or joining a course or program.

take out a subscription

Highlights the act of purchasing a recurring service or product.

become a member

Suggests joining an organization or group with associated benefits.

support the idea

Implies agreement with a particular concept or viewpoint.

give your consent

Expresses formal agreement or permission.

endorse the view

Highlights support for a particular perspective or belief.

pledge allegiance

Focuses on committing to a cause or belief.

affiliate with

Highlights the act of associating or formally connecting with an organization.

register for updates

Emphasizes the action of signing up to receive regular news or information.

FAQs

How can I use "subscribe" in a sentence?

You can use "subscribe" in a sentence to express signing up for a service, like "I want to "subscribe to" that magazine" or to indicate agreement, such as "I don't "subscribe to" that belief".

What's the difference between "subscribe to" and "agree with"?

"Subscribe to" can imply either signing up for a service or supporting an idea, while "agree with" typically only refers to having the same opinion or belief. "I "subscribe to" the newsletter" means I signed up for it; "I agree with your opinion" means I share your view.

What can I say instead of "subscribe to" when referring to a belief?

When referring to a belief, you can use alternatives like "believe in", "support the idea", or "endorse the view".

Is it correct to say "I am subscribing"?

Yes, "I am subscribing" is correct. It's the present continuous tense of "subscribe" and suggests that you are currently in the process of signing up for something. You might say, "I am subscribing to this service right now".