Online vs On-Line
What’s the difference between them?
Online
Meaning:
Online is an adjective meaning existing or accessible on or through the internet.
Examples:
1. I like to do my shopping online instead of going to the store.
2. My daughter is taking an online course this semester.
3. I spent the morning working online from home.
On-Line
Meaning:
wrong spelling of online.
Examples:
no examples
Learn similar and opposite words to spot the difference
Synonyms
Antonyms
Online
1. On the Web
2. Through the Internet
3. Digital
4. Virtual
5. On the Net
1. Offline
2. Face-to-Face
3. Analog
4. Offline/Traditional
5. Offline/Manual
On-Line
This word doesn't exist, so there are no synonyms for it.
This word doesn't exist, so there are no antonyms for it.
Tricks for mastery
Useful tips to understand the difference between confusing words "Online", "On-Line".
1. 'Online' is the correct spelling.
2. 'On-line' is a common mistake and should be avoided in modern English.
Practice English with the Promova app and avoid misusing confusing words
Frequently asked questions
In what situations should the first word be used?
'Online' should be used to describe activities that take place over the internet, such as purchases, gaming, or streaming.
When is the appropriate context for using the second word?
'On-line' is the incorrect spelling and shouldn't be used in any contexts.
Do the two words share the same pronunciation?
Yes, both words are pronounced the same, but remember that hyphenated 'on-line' is incorrect.
What are some common mistakes people make when using these words?
A common mistake people make when using these words is confusing 'on-line' and 'online.' People generally use 'online' when referring to activities taking place over the internet, and 'on-line' is incorrect spelling.
Fill in the gaps to check yourself
1. I completed the course ___ and gained a certificate.
2. To make a purchase, I had to enter my credit card details ___.
3. I found the best price ___.
4. We discussed the project ___ in the meeting.
5. I prefer to shop ___ rather than in-store.
6. I can pay my bills ___ using my banking app.
1. I completed the course online and gained a certificate.
Explanation: The correct word to fill the gap is online as it is referring to the completion of an online course.
2. To make a purchase, I had to enter my credit card details online.
Explanation: The correct word to fill the gap is online as it is referring to making a purchase over the internet.
3. I found the best price online.
Explanation: The correct word to fill the gap is online as it is referring to finding the best price over the internet.
4. We discussed the project online in the meeting.
Explanation: The correct word to fill the gap is online as it is referring to discussing a project over the internet in a meeting.
5. I prefer to shop online rather than in-store.
Explanation: The correct word to fill the gap is online as it is referring to purchasing items over the internet instead of in a physical store.
6. I can pay my bills online using my banking app.
Explanation: The correct word to fill the gap is online as it is referring to paying bills over the internet with an app.
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Download the PDF with a list of commonly confused words made as flashcards for comfortable learning.
List of Commonly Confused Words
Finding your way around the English language can be hard, especially since there are so many confusing words and rules. So, a list of the most confusing words in English is an extremely useful tool for improving language accuracy and sharing the ideas clearly.