to activate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to activate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the process of making something operational or functional, such as a device, feature, or system. Example: "You need to press the button to activate the alarm system."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Time to activate the PODs.

The New York Times

(To activate: scroll, select, click).

The New York Times

Tap once to activate C.I.A. briefing.

The New Yorker

There are three ways to activate it.

The Guardian - Tech

I reached up to activate the roof.

The Guardian - Tech

There is no personally identifiable information required to activate".

The New York Times - Tech

New users have to activate their keys online.

The New York Times - Tech

Tap twice to activate C.I.A.-briefing lie detector.

The New Yorker

Let it stand for 15 minutes to activate.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Scientists have begun to activate the lander's drill.

The Guardian

Seconds later he appeared to activate a suicide bomb.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing instructions, use "to activate" followed by a clear and concise explanation of the steps required. For example, "To activate the feature, click the button and enter your password."

Common error

While "to activate" is generally acceptable, avoid using it excessively in formal or academic writing where more precise verbs like "to enable", "to initiate", or "to trigger" might be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to activate" functions as an infinitive of purpose, often indicating the intended action or goal. It's used to describe the steps needed to make something functional or operational, as seen in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Wiki

40%

Science

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to activate" is a versatile and commonly used infinitive that serves to instruct or guide, making something functional or operational. Ludwig AI confirms it's correct and usable in written English. Its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts, from news and media to technical documentation. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "to enable", "to initiate", or "to trigger" based on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Being precise will ensure the message is clear and actionable. Avoiding overuse in overly formal contexts will ensure style effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to enable

This alternative is more general and can be used in place of "to activate" in many contexts. It focuses on making something possible.

to trigger

This alternative suggests a more immediate and direct action, often with a specific cause or event.

to initiate

This alternative implies starting something, often a process or sequence of events.

to start

This is a simple and direct alternative, suitable for informal contexts.

to turn on

This alternative is specific to devices and mechanisms that can be switched on or off.

to set in motion

This alternative suggests a more complex or elaborate action is being started.

to power up

This alternative is related to starting electrical device, often used in technical setting.

to switch on

Similar to "to turn on", but can also refer to activating a particular mode or function.

to commence

A more formal alternative to "to start", suitable for official or academic contexts.

to boot up

This alternative refers specifically to starting a computer or other electronic device.

FAQs

How can I use "to activate" in a sentence?

You can use "to activate" to describe the process of making something operational. For instance, "You need to press the button "to activate" the alarm system" or "Scientists have begun "to activate" the lander's drill".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "to activate"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "to enable", "to trigger", "to initiate", or "to start".

Is it better to say "activate" or "enable"?

While both "activate" and "enable" can be used in similar contexts, "activate" often implies bringing something into action, whereas "enable" focuses on making something possible. The best choice depends on the specific context. For example, "To activate the alarm" versus "To enable Bluetooth".

What does it mean "to activate" something?

When you "activate" something, you are putting it into a state of readiness or making it functional. This could involve turning on a device, initiating a process, or enabling a feature. For example, "You will need "to activate" any new or existing card".