SIGNED UP

Human Communication

"Once you have signed up for a path, let your commitment shape your journey amidst the uncertainties and challenges of life."

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb "signed up" means to enroll or register for a service, event, or activity, typically indicating a commitment to participate.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb "signed up" means to enroll or register for a service, event, or activity, typically indicating a commitment to participate.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
No
The phrase cannot be split by an object.
Register
Neutral
Suitable for both informal and formal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object, typically indicating the program or activity enrolled in.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple sign up They sign up for the new art class every summer.
Past Simple signed up She signed up for the marathon last year.
Present Continuous signing up He is signing up for classes right now.
Present Perfect have signed up We have signed up for the gym membership.

💡 When to Use

Joining an event
Use when indicating participation in events, courses, or activities, requiring registration.
Example: "I signed up for the cooking workshop next week."
Enlisting for service
Use when registering formally for services, potentially involving commitment or obligation.
Example: "He signed up for military service after graduation."
Subscribing online
Use when enrolling for online newsletters, memberships, or subscriptions that typically need user registration.
Example: "She signed up for the monthly newsletter."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Using without object
❌ Wrong: I signed up.
✅ Correct: I signed up for the course.
💡 Tip: Always specify what you're signing up for.
Incorrect tense
❌ Wrong: She sign up for yoga yesterday.
✅ Correct: She signed up for yoga yesterday.
💡 Tip: Match tense with time reference.
Wrong preposition
❌ Wrong: They signed off to the training.
✅ Correct: They signed up for the training.
💡 Tip: Use 'up for' not 'off to'.
Practice

SIGNED UP - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

  • 1
    Listen to example

    Maria eagerly signed up for the volunteer program to help her community.

    Words Multiplied
  • 2
    Listen to example

    Before the deadline, hundreds of students signed up for the university entrance exams.

    Words Multiplied
  • 3
    Listen to example

    He signed up late, missing the chance to attend the exclusive seminar.

    Words Multiplied

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

enrolled registered

Antonyms

withdrew

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"Tom decided to ___ for the pottery classes."

sign out
signed up
log in
drop off

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Signed Up

What is the origin of signed up?

+
The phrasal verb 'signed up' originates from the early 20th century, rooted in administrative contexts. It combines 'sign', meaning to indicate consent by writing one's name, with 'up', implying commitment, especially in enrolling or registering for an organized activity.

Can signed up be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'signed up' is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. In formal settings, it describes participation in official programs or events. Informally, it refers to various personal or casual activities, like joining clubs or classes.

What is the difference between signed up and enrolled?

+
While both mean registering, 'signed up' is more informal and often temporary, used for varied activities. 'Enrolled' has a formal tone, typically used for educational or official capacities, implying a more structured or long-term commitment.

Related Phrasal Verbs

Explore more phrasal verbs in our dictionary:

enrolled inregistered forjoined upopted insubscribed to
Browse All Words Multiplied Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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