sign on

To agree to take part in a project, activity, or shared aim.

• I never signed on for this.
• Ten volunteers signed on to help clean the beach.
• Will you sign on for the next stage of the project?

How to use it: sign on for something (Several volunteers signed on for the project.); sign on to do something (She signed on to help run the campaign.)

Similar words: commit, join, agree to participate

Common phrases: sign on willingly, sign on for something

To join a group or start a job by signing an agreement.

• He signed on as a sailor.
• Three new players signed on with the club.
• Would you sign on for another year at sea?

How to use it: sign on as something (He signed on as a cook.); sign on with someone/something (She signed on with a local team.)

Similar words: enlist, join, enrol

Common phrases: sign on today, sign on as someone

To connect to a computer service or begin using a radio to communicate.

• You need a password to sign on.
• The radio operator signed on at dawn.
• Have you signed on to your account yet?

How to use it: sign on to something (Sign on to the network with your password.)

Similar words: log on, log in

Opposites: sign off

Common phrases: sign on again, sign on today, sign on remotely

To register with a government office to receive money while you are unemployed.

• I signed on after losing my job.
• She has to sign on every two weeks.
• Have you signed on for benefits yet?

How to use it: sign on for something (He signed on for unemployment benefits.)

Similar words: claim unemployment benefits

Common phrases: sign on weekly, sign on again, sign on for benefits

If a radio or television station does this, it begins sending programmes after a break.

• The station signs on at dawn.
• Our local radio station signed on with a weather report.
• Years ago, this channel would sign on after several hours of silence.

How to use it: sign on at a time (The station signs on at six in the morning.)

Similar words: begin broadcasting, go on air

Opposites: sign off

Common phrases: sign on daily, sign on early