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Phrasal verbs "sign for" vs "sign on"

Differences between sign for and sign on

Sign for means to acknowledge receipt of something by signing a document or form, while sign on means to agree to work for a company or organization.

Meanings and Definitions: sign for vs sign on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Sign for

  • 1Write a signature on behalf on someone.

    My boss was out for the day, so I SIGNED her letters FOR her.

Sign on

  • 1Open a claim for unemployment benefit.

    I had to SIGN ON when I lost my job.

  • 2Agree to participate.

    I've SIGNED ON to help at the village fete.

  • 3Start broadcasting.

    He SIGNS ON the same way every show.

  • 4Employ.

    We've SIGNED ON two new teachers.

Usage Examples: sign for, sign on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

sign for

Example

I will sign for the package when it arrives.

Example

She signs for her boss's letters when he is out of the office.

sign on

Example

After losing her job, she had to sign on to receive unemployment benefits.

Example

He signs on for unemployment benefits after being laid off.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sign for

acknowledge receipt of

To confirm that something has been received by signing a document or form.

Example

He had to acknowledge receipt of the package by signing the delivery slip.

put one's signature on

To sign a document or form as proof of agreement or receipt.

Example

She had to put her signature on the contract before it became legally binding.

accept delivery of

To receive and take possession of something that has been delivered.

Example

He had to accept delivery of the new furniture and sign the delivery receipt.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sign on

join a company

To become an employee of a company or organization.

Example

She was excited to join the company and start her new job next week.

start working for

To begin employment with a company or organization.

Example

He was happy to start working for the new startup and contribute to its growth.

take up a position

To accept a job or role within a company or organization.

Example

After months of searching, she finally took up a position as a marketing manager at a leading firm.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “sign”

Phrasal Verbs with “for”

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

Differences in sign for vs sign on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: sign for or sign on?

In daily conversation, people use sign on more often than sign for. This is because sign on is used when someone agrees to work for a company or organization. Sign for is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used in formal settings such as signing for a package or delivery. So, while both phrases are used, sign on is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of sign for and sign on

Sign for and sign on are both formal phrases often used in official documents or contracts. They are suitable for business or legal contexts. In informal settings like casual conversations, using alternative expressions can convey a more relaxed tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of sign for and sign on

The tone of sign for and sign on can differ based on context. Sign for often carries a serious or official tone when related to signing legal documents or receiving packages, while sign on typically has a positive and enthusiastic tone, especially when referring to starting a new job or career.

sign for & sign on: Synonyms and Antonyms

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