What are the definitions of “sign on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sign on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sign on is to open a claim for unemployment benefits. It is often used when someone loses their job and needs financial assistance from the government.
What are the different verb forms of “sign on”?
| Root Verb | sign on |
| Third Person Singular Present | signs on |
| Present Participle | signing on |
| Simple Past | signed on |
| Past Participle | signed 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.
Example
She is signing on for unemployment benefits after losing her job.
Example
He signed on for unemployment benefits last month.
Example
She had signed on for unemployment benefits when she lost her job.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sign on”?
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 on” 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
She had to sign on when she lost her job.
Example
He signed on to help at the village fete.
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 on” 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
She had to sign on when she lost her job.
Example
He signed on to help at the village fete.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sign on”?
Sign on the dotted line
To formally agree to something, usually by signing a contract or document.
Example
Before starting the new job, he had to sign on the dotted line to accept the terms and conditions.
Sign on for
To agree to participate in something or commit to a specific task.
Example
She signed on for the charity event as a volunteer.
Sign on as
To accept a job or position, usually by signing a contract.
Example
He signed on as a consultant for the company.
Good things to know
Does “sign on” have an informal or formal tone?
Sign on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be used in more formal settings, such as in legal or professional situations.
