to sign for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to sign for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when someone is authorizing or acknowledging receipt of a package, document, or item on behalf of someone else. Example: "Please sign for the package when it arrives at the office."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Pleased to sign for Dortmund !

Independent

"You need to sign for this one".

The Guardian - Books

Most don't require customers to sign for purchases, though.

The New York Times

The last outfield player to sign for Arsenal?

Independent

He is set to sign for Surrey imminently.

Independent

"I am so happy to sign for Chelsea.

Independent

Then told Moyes he was off to sign for Arsenal!

The Guardian - Sport

I am delighted he has chosen to sign for United.

The Guardian - Sport

Both left steel employment to sign for Boro.

The Guardian - Sport

He is the 25th rider to sign for the team.

The Guardian - Sport

"You need to sign for it," he said.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In scenarios involving deliveries or receipts, always double-check the item before you "to sign for" it, to ensure it matches the description and is in acceptable condition.

Common error

Avoid using "signing" when you specifically mean "to sign for" something on behalf of someone else or acknowledging receipt. "Signing" alone is a general term, whereas "to sign for" implies a specific action related to authorization or acceptance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to sign for" functions primarily as an infinitive phrase that describes the act of providing a signature as an acknowledgement or acceptance. This can range from signing for a package to formally agreeing to a contract, as exemplified by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

18%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

8%

Social Media

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "to sign for" is a very common and grammatically correct infinitive phrase used to indicate the action of providing a signature as acknowledgment, agreement, or acceptance of something. As Ludwig AI explains, this phrase is frequently found in news, media, and formal business contexts, exhibiting a neutral to professional register. When writing, ensure you use "to sign for" to specifically denote acknowledgment or responsibility rather than the more general "to sign". The examples shown here, according to Ludwig, indicate a wide range of use cases from sports team contracts to package delivery confirmations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to acknowledge receipt of

Specifically refers to confirming the reception of something.

to accept delivery for

Similar to acknowledging receipt, but specifically in the context of receiving a delivery.

to give one's signature for

More literal, emphasizing the act of providing a signature as authorization.

to put one's name to

Focuses on the act of adding a name as a symbol of agreement or responsibility.

to endorse formally

Implies a more formal agreement or approval, often in an official capacity.

to ratify formally

Similar to endorse, but more official and legally binding.

to give consent for

Implies granting permission or approval for something.

to countersign

Indicates a secondary signature, usually to validate another signature.

to subscribe to

Implies agreement with or support for an idea or service.

to underwrite

Suggests financial backing or guarantee, implying strong agreement.

FAQs

What does "to sign for" mean?

The phrase "to sign for" typically means to provide your signature as an acknowledgement of receiving something, like a package or document. It can also mean to formally agree to something by signing a document.

When should I use "to sign for" instead of just "to sign"?

Use "to sign for" when you're specifically acknowledging receipt or accepting responsibility on behalf of someone or something. If you are simply adding your signature to a document, use "to sign".

Are there any formal alternatives "to sign for" a package?

Yes, you can use phrases like "to acknowledge receipt of", "to accept delivery for", or "to provide a signature upon receipt" in more formal contexts.

What's the difference between "to sign" and "to sign for"?

"To sign" generally means to write your name on something. "To sign for" specifically implies that you are acknowledging receipt or taking responsibility for something, often on behalf of someone else.