"Sign in" is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts; however, its prevalence is more significant in the digital age as it relates to accessing accounts and services online, such as websites, software platforms, and email. In informal speech, it often relates to logging into personal accounts or services, like saying "I need to sign in to Facebook to check messages." In formal contexts, it is used in corporate or official scenarios, where someone might say, "Please sign in to the system to access your work portal." The phrasal verb indicates the action of entering one's credentials, typically consisting of a username and password, to gain access to a system. "Sign in" is often used interchangeably with "log in," though the latter is sometimes preferred in technical documentation. It is crucial for tasks involving security and identity verification in both digital and physical spaces.
A2
Beginner
1. To register one's presence by entering name or credentials, usually on a computer or at a location.
Please sign in at the front desk when you arrive.
I need to sign in to my email to check for new messages.
2. To begin an online session, typically on a website or app, by entering user information.
I forgot my password, so I couldn't sign in.
The website requires users to sign in to access premium content.