Phrasal verb
log on
Definition
phrasal verb. You use this when you enter your password to start using a computer or a website. It means you are connecting to the system so you can work.
phrasal verb. To initiate a session with a computer system or network by providing credentials. The verb is typically intransitive or functions as part of a prepositional phrase with 'to'.
Examples
“You need to log on to check your emails.”
“Please log on to the company portal using your new password to complete the safety training.”
“Users are required to log on via a secure gateway to ensure that all data transmissions remain encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.”
Examples
simple
“You need to log on to check your emails.”
contextual
“Please log on to the company portal using your new password to complete the safety training.”
complex
“Users are required to log on via a secure gateway to ensure that all data transmissions remain encrypted and protected from unauthorized access.”
Usage
Usually followed by 'to' when mentioning a specific website or system.
Teaching tip
Compare with 'log in' and 'sign in', noting that 'log on' is very common in technical and office environments.
Pitfall
I forgot to log on the computer.
I forgot to log on to the computer.
The verb requires the preposition 'to' before the object representing the system or device.
Phrasal verb
Particles
on
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
log + on (+ to + object)
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/log-on