to connect to a

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to connect to a" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to establishing a link or relationship with something, such as a device, network, or concept. Example: "To connect to a Wi-Fi network, you need to enter the password provided by your internet service provider."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

WLANs allow users to connect to a network without the wires.

Wi-Fi Telephony Challenges and Solutions for Voice over WLANs

VPNs use secure tunnels to allow remote users to connect to a network.

How to Cheat at Securing Your Network

WI-FI This provides the ability to connect to a Wi-Fi network using a phone.

The New York Times - Tech

He seems to want to connect to a sense of struggle.

The New York Times - Magazine

Unlike most peripherals, it requires no cable to connect to a computer.

The New York Times - Tech

A way that led me to connect to a passion I didn't realize we both shared.

The New York Times

RCA's decoder box, for example, uses an RGB input to connect to a television.

The New York Times - Tech

Apathy is a strange word to connect to a bookstore that thrives on passion.

The Guardian - Books

The user may specify a server id to connect to a specific server which is running.

Harvard University

Do not attempt to connect to a running edit server, and does not start one either.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

WLANs allow users to connect to a network (and by extension, to the Internet) without using the the wires.

Bulletproof Wireless Security GSM, UMTS, 802.11 and Ad Hoc Security

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to connect to a" when you want to emphasize establishing a link, whether physical or abstract, between two entities. Ensure the context makes it clear what is being connected and why.

Common error

Avoid using "to connect to a" excessively in long, convoluted sentences. Break down complex ideas into simpler statements to improve clarity and readability.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to connect to a" primarily functions as an infinitive phrase. It often introduces a purpose or describes an action related to establishing a link or relationship between two things. As Ludwig AI explains, the phrase is versatile, appearing in contexts ranging from technical instructions to discussions of human relationships.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "to connect to a" is a versatile and commonly used infinitive phrase that describes the action of establishing a link or relationship. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and appropriate for diverse contexts. Usage ranges from technical setups to broader social and abstract connections. While prevalent in News & Media, Science, and Wiki content, remember that clarity is key; simplify complex sentences to prevent overuse. Alternatives like "to link to a" or "to interface with a" can add nuance, but "to connect to a" remains a solid choice for expressing the core idea of establishing a connection.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to link with a

Focuses on the act of linking rather than connecting; implies a more direct association.

to join with a

Suggests a merging or unification with something, emphasizing participation.

to interface with a

Emphasizes the interaction between two systems or entities.

to hook up to a

Informal and suggests a physical connection or a quick, easy connection.

to attach to a

Implies physically joining or fastening something to another.

to bind to a

Suggests a strong or permanent connection, often with legal or moral implications.

to relate to a

Focuses on establishing a relationship or finding relevance to something.

to associate with a

Implies forming a connection or link in one's mind or experience.

to access a

Emphasizes the ability to reach or use something, often a system or resource.

to tap into a

Implies gaining access to a resource or potential.

FAQs

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

The phrase "to connect to a" is versatile and can be used in various contexts. For example, you might say, "You need a cable to connect to a computer" or "The goal is to connect to a wider audience".

Are there formal alternatives to "to connect to a"?

Yes, depending on the context, more formal alternatives include phrases like "to interface with", "to link with", or "to access".

Is it grammatically correct to use "to connect to a" at the beginning of a sentence?

While less common, it is grammatically correct to use "to connect to a" at the beginning of a sentence, particularly when expressing purpose. For example: "To connect to a network, you must first enter the password."

What's the difference between "to connect to a" and "to connect with a"?

While similar, "to connect to a" typically implies establishing a direct link or access point, whereas "to connect with a" often refers to forming a more abstract or emotional relationship. The correct preposition choice depends on the intended nuance.