What does the phrasal verb “sign in” mean?

What are the definitions of “sign in”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Register in a hotel.

  We SIGNED IN and went straight to bed.

• 2. Open a computer program that requires a name and password.

  I SIGNED IN and started chatting online.

• 3. Write your name when entering a place.

  You have to SIGN IN before you can enter the club.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sign in is to enter your username and password to access a website, computer, or online service. It is often used when logging into email accounts, social media platforms, or other online services.

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

Root Verb	sign in
Third Person Singular Present	signs in
Present Participle	signing in
Simple Past	signed in
Past Participle	signed 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.

Example

He is signing in to his social media account to post an update.

Example

Yesterday, they signed in to the conference using their registration details.

Example

Once she had signed in, she was able to access all the features of the website.

What kind of phrasal verb is “sign 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

“sign 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

Please sign in at the front desk.

Example

I signed in to my account and started working.

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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

“sign 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

Please sign in at the front desk.

Example

I signed in to my account and started working.

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

Sign in sheet

A document used to record the names and other details of people attending an event, entering a building, or participating in a meeting.

Example

Please write your name and contact information on the sign in sheet before entering the conference room.

Sign in process

The steps required to access a website, computer, or online service by entering a username and password.

Example

The sign in process for this website is very simple and user-friendly.

Sign in with

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

Example

You can sign in with your Google account to access this website.

Good things to know

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

Sign 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 the workplace or during official events.

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

Synonyms

• access
• enter
• register
• authenticate
• log in
• check in

Antonyms

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