How to Correctly Use Login vs Log in vs. Log-in vs. Log on

• "Login" is a noun that refers to the credentials or process used to access a computer system, website, or application. It can also function as an adjective used to describe items or features related to the act of logging in.
• "Log in" is a verb phrase that describes the action of entering those credentials or initiating the process to access the system.
• "Log-in" is a less common, alternative version of "login."
• "Log on" is similar to "log in," but it implies a simpler connection.

In the digital world, where passwords reign supreme and data reigns supreme, one phrase pops up constantly: "log in." But wait, is it "login," "log in," "log-in," or "log on"? Can we use them interchangeably, or are there subtle differences lurking beneath the surface?

Login: This is the noun and adjective form of the phrase. It refers to the information itself, the combination of username and password that grants you access. So, your "login" is essentially your digital passport.

Log in: This is the classic two-word verb phrase. It refers to the act of providing your credentials (username and password) to gain access to a system or account. Think of it as the key that unlocks the digital door.

Log-in: This hyphenated form is less common and considered by some to be outdated. While grammatically correct, it's often seen as clunky and less preferred compared to the other two options. Think of it as the slightly awkward cousin of the "login" family.

Logon: This is a term often used interchangeably with "login." It refers to the process of gaining access to a computer system, network, or application by providing the necessary credentials, such as a username and password. The term is commonly used in the context of initiating a session or establishing a connection to a secure system.

Remembering the Difference:

Here's a handy trick to keep things straight:

• Login: I've tried every possible login combination, but nothing works!
• Log in: Please log in to your account to view your order history.
• Log-in: The log-in process takes a few minutes, so please be patient.
• Log on: I logged on to the public Wi-Fi at the airport to check my flight status.

The Ngram graph below shows the use of the "login," "log in," "log-in," and "log on" from the 1800s to the 2000s. As seen on the graph, "login" is used the most, followed by "log in," "log on" and then "log-in."

Origins of "login," "log in," "log-in," or "log on"

Log: The foundation lies in the word "log," with two key historical contexts:

Nautical: In the 1600s, ships used a "log" (wooden device attached to a line) to measure speed. The readings were recorded in a "logbook," documenting events, distances, and observations at sea. This practice of logging information influenced the later use of "log" in computing.

Record-Keeping: The term "log" evolved to encompass any record or list of events or data. This broader meaning paved the way for its adoption in computer systems, where logging refers to recording user activity and system events.

Digital Evolution:

"Login" (1970s): As secure computer systems and distinct user accounts became the norm, the noun and adjective form "login" gained popularity in the 1970s. It served as a convenient way to refer to the credentials themselves.

"Log in" (1960s): The earliest recorded use of "log in" in its modern computer sense dates back to 1963 in a publication about the Compatible Time-Sharing System (CTSS). It likely emerged as a natural extension of the record-keeping concept, as logging in involves recording a user's entry into a system.

"Log-in" (Hyphenated): While seen in early computing, the hyphenated form "log-in" has gradually phased out, often considered less elegant or modern.

"Log on" (1960s): Initially used interchangeably with "log in," "log on" developed a subtle distinction over time. It often suggests a simpler connection, like joining a network or accessing basic services, where complex authentication isn't required.

More example sentences for login vs log in vs. log-in vs. log on

Login:

• Your login information consists of a unique username and a confidential password.
• I hastily scribbled down my new login credentials on a sticky note, determined not to forget them again after being locked out of my account for the third time this week.

Log in:

• Please use your credentials to log in to the online portal and access your account.
• Users need to log in before they can start using the software.

Log-in:

• The website's log-in page has been redesigned for a more user-friendly experience.
• Make sure you have the correct log-in details to access the private forum.

Log on:

• Employees are required to log on to the company network using their assigned usernames and passwords.
• Once you log on, you'll have access to a variety of online resources.

Answer key

1. login (noun)
2. log in (verb)
3. login (noun)
4. log on (verb, simpler connection)
5. log on (verb, network connection)
6. login (noun)
7. log in (verb)
8. login (noun)
9. login (noun)
10. log in (verb)

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References:

Definition of LOG ON

to establish communication and initiate interaction with a computer or system —often used with to —often written as log onto and log into… See the full definition

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