Difference Between “Sign In” And “Log In”
Sign in and log in are commonly used terms in the context of accessing accounts or systems online. While both phrases refer to the action of gaining entry to a specific platform, there is a subtle distinction between the two.
When we say “sign in,” it implies the act of entering a username or email address and password to access an account. This term is often used when referring to websites, online services, or applications.
On the other hand, “log in” generally refers to the action of entering a username or user ID and password to gain access to a computer or network system. It is commonly associated with the process of accessing a device or an operating system.
Importance Of Adding A Hyphen In “Sign-In” To Avoid Confusion With “Signing”
To ensure clarity and avoid confusion, it is important to add a hyphen between “sign” and “in” when using the term “sign-in.” This is primarily done to distinguish it from the term “signing,” which refers to the act of filling out or putting one’s signature on a document.
By adding a hyphen, we create a compound noun or adjective that clearly indicates the action of entering one’s credentials to access an account or system, rather than the act of signing a physical or digital document.
“Login” Is Another Common Alternative To “Log In”
While “log in” is the more traditional term, “login” has emerged as a commonly used alternative. This single word form has gained popularity, particularly in the tech industry where brevity is often valued.
“Login” functions as a noun or an adjective, similar to “sign-in.” It refers to the credentials used to access an account or system, or the panel or screen where these credentials are entered.
Debate Over Whether “Sign In” Should Be Written As Two Words Or Hyphenated
There has been ongoing debate and inconsistency about whether the term “sign in” should be written as two separate words or hyphenated as “sign-in.”
As a phrasal verb denoting the action of entering credentials, “sign in” is commonly written as two words. However, to mitigate confusion with the act of physically signing something, it is widely recommended to use a hyphen to form the compound noun or adjective “sign-in.”
The use of a hyphen not only ensures clear understanding but also aligns with common usage in the tech industry and online spaces.
“Sign In” Commonly Written As Two Words As A Phrasal Verb
As mentioned before, “sign in” is commonly written as two separate words when used as a phrasal verb. It signifies the act of entering one’s credentials, typically a username or email address, and password, to gain access to an account or system.
For example, a sentence using “sign in” would be: “Please sign in with your username and password to access your account.”
This phrasal verb form is widely accepted, understood, and used in everyday speech and writing.
“Sign-In” Used As An Adjective And Hyphenated, With A Noun Following It
When used as an adjective, “sign-in” is typically hyphenated and followed by a noun that it modifies. For example, we could say “sign-in page,” “sign-in process,” or “sign-in credentials.”
The hyphen in “sign-in” clarifies that it is an adjective describing or relating to the process or action of signing in. It helps avoid confusion with other forms of signing or signing-related activities.
“Signin” As One Word Is Incorrect And Not Used
It is important to note that the term “signin” as one word is grammatically incorrect and not used in standard English.
When referring to the action of entering credentials, the correct and accepted forms are “sign in” or “sign-in.”
Using “signin” as a single word diverges from established grammatical norms and should be avoided.
Both Cambridge And Oxford Dictionaries Define “Sign In” As A Phrasal Verb
Both the Cambridge and Oxford dictionaries define “sign in” as a phrasal verb. This further solidifies the correct usage and recognition of “sign in” as a widely accepted term in the English language.
The inclusion of “sign in” in reputable dictionaries assures users that they are using an accurate and recognized term when referring to the action of entering credentials to access an account or system.
Additionally, dictionary definitions offer clarity and aid in understanding the proper usage and meaning of “sign in.”
