Phrasal verbs "sign off" vs "sign on"

Differences between sign off and sign on

The main difference between sign off and sign on is that sign off means to end a communication or activity, while sign on means to begin or start a communication or activity.

Meanings and Definitions: sign off vs sign on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Sign off

  • 1End a message.

    I'll SIGN OFF now, but will write again next week.

  • 2Close a claim for unemployment benefit.

    I SIGNED OFF when I got my new job.

  • 3Stop doing something to leave.

    I'm SIGNING OFF now and going home I'm shattered.

  • 4Give someone a letter to be away from work.

    My doctor SIGNED me OFF for a month with back problems.

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 off, sign on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

sign off

Example

I always sign off my emails with 'Best regards'.

Example

She signs off her letters with 'Yours sincerely'.

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 off

wrap up

To finish or complete something.

Example

Let's wrap up this meeting since we've covered all the agenda items.

conclude

To bring something to an end or finish it.

Example

The speaker concluded the presentation by thanking the audience for their attention.

finish up

To complete or conclude something.

Example

I need to finish up this report before the deadline.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sign on

To enter one's username and password to access a computer or online account.

Example

Please log in to your account to view your purchase history.

start up

To begin or initiate a process or activity.

Example

He started up his computer and checked his emails.

To start or commence an activity or process.

Example

Let's begin the meeting by introducing ourselves.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “on”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: sign off or sign on?

In daily conversation, people use sign off more often than sign on. This is because sign off is used in various contexts such as ending a phone call, finishing an email, or concluding a meeting. Sign on, on the other hand, is mainly used for starting a computer or logging into an account. So, while both phrases are used, sign off is more common in everyday conversation.

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

Sign off 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 off and sign on

The tone of sign off and sign on can differ based on context. Sign off often carries a polite or professional tone when related to ending a conversation or activity, while sign on typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to starting a computer or logging into an account.

sign off & sign on: Synonyms and Antonyms

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