Differences between sign in and sign on
Sign in usually means to log in or enter a place or event by providing one's name or other identification. On the other hand, sign on generally means to agree to participate in something or to start working for a company.
Meanings and Definitions: sign in vs sign on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Sign in
- 1Register in a hotel.
We SIGNED IN and went straight to bed.
- 2Open a computer program that requires a name and password.
I SIGNED IN and started chatting online.
- 3Write your name when entering a place.
You have to SIGN IN before you can enter the club.
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 in, sign on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
sign in
Example
Please sign in to your account to access the online course.
Example
She signs in to her email every morning to check for new messages.
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 in
clock in
To record one's arrival time at work by using a time clock or other device.
Example
I always clock in at 9 am sharp to make sure I'm on time for work.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sign on
join up
To become a member of a group, organization, or team.
Example
He decided to join up with the local soccer club to improve his skills and meet new people.
To formally join the military or other service by signing a contract or agreement.
Example
He decided to enlist in the army after finishing high school.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “sign”
Phrasal Verbs with “in”
- eat in
- do in
- rake it in
- drop someone in
- pack it in
Differences in sign in vs sign on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: sign in or sign on?
In daily conversation, people use sign in more often than sign on. This is because sign in is used for more routine activities such as logging into an account or entering a building. Sign on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a new job or agreeing to participate in a project. So, while both phrases are used, sign in is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of sign in and sign on
Sign in and sign on are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of sign in and sign on
The tone of sign in and sign on can differ based on context. Sign in often carries a practical or procedural tone when related to logging in or entering a place, while sign on typically has a more enthusiastic or committed tone, especially when referring to starting a new job or joining a project.
