What does the phrasal verb “log in” mean?

What are the definitions of “log in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Enter a restricted area on a computer system.

  I had forgotten my password and couldn't LOG IN.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “log in”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb log in is to enter a restricted area on a computer system, such as a website or an application, by providing a username and password. For example, it can mean signing into your email account, accessing a social media platform, or entering a secure website.

What are the different verb forms of “log in”?

Root Verb	log in
Third Person Singular Present	logs in
Present Participle	logging in
Simple Past	logged in
Past Participle	logged in

Example

Please log in to your account to access the online course.

Example

She logs in to her email every morning to check for new messages.

Example

He is logging in to the online banking system to check his account balance.

Example

Yesterday, I logged in to the website to download the report.

Example

Once she had logged in, she was able to access her files.

What kind of phrasal verb is “log in”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Intransitive verb

“log in” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

I tried to log in, but I forgot my password.

Example

He logged in to the website using his username and password.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“log in” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

I tried to log in, but I forgot my password.

Example

He logged in to the website using his username and password.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “log in”?

Log in with

To access a website or application using the credentials from another account, such as a social media or email account.

Example

You can log in with your Facebook or Google account for faster access.

Log in to

To access a specific website or application by providing the required credentials.

Example

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

Log in page

The webpage where users enter their credentials to access a restricted area of a website or application.

Example

If you have forgotten your password, please visit the log in page and click on 'Forgot Password'.

Good things to know

Does “log in” have an informal or formal tone?

Log in is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional settings, such as in business emails or technical documents.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “log in”?

Synonyms

• access
• enter
• authenticate
• sign in
• connect

Antonyms

• exit
• disconnect
• leave
• log out
• sign out