Online Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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online

[ˈɒn.laɪn ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

shopping

Connected to the internet or available through the internet.

Synonyms

digital, internet-based, web-based.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
online	Use this when referring to activities or services accessible via the internet. It's suitable for general use. I took an online course to improve my skills. The store offers an online shopping option.
internet-based	This is often used in technical contexts or to emphasize that something relies entirely on the internet. Our company provides internet-based solutions for businesses. Internet-based education is becoming more popular.
web-based	Use this term when referring to applications or services that are specifically accessed through a web browser. This term is highly specific and often used in IT and software development contexts. We developed a web-based app for project management. The software is web-based, so you can use it on any device with a browser.
digital	This word is appropriate when discussing technology or experiences that involve computers or digital systems. It's broader than 'online' and includes things not necessarily connected to the internet. Digital photography has revolutionized the industry. We have created a digital version of our magazine.

Examples of usage

You can find great deals on online shopping websites like Amazon and eBay.
I prefer to do my banking online for convenience and efficiency.

^{Context #2 | Adverb}

communication

While connected to a computer or the internet.

Synonyms

digitally, remotely, virtually.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
online	Use when referring to activities or interactions conducted through the internet. I prefer shopping online The company offers online courses
digitally	Use when discussing processes, tools, or content that exists or is performed using digital technology. The files are stored digitally His artwork is created digitally
virtually	Use when referring to a scenario that takes place in a virtual space or when approximating the extent of the interaction. The conference was held virtually The tour is virtually available
remotely	Use when referring to doing work or having meetings away from a usual physical location, often from home. She works remotely from her home The team held a meeting remotely

Examples of usage

I can help you with your computer problems online.
We can chat online later this evening.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Technology

The expansion of the internet in the 1990s and 2000s transformed 'online' from a technical term into part of daily life for millions.
Online communication has shifted from emails and chat rooms to social media and instant messaging apps.

Cultural Impact

The rise of online shopping has changed how people buy goods, making it possible to shop from home 24/7.
Streaming services have made entertainment more accessible, allowing people to watch their favorite shows and movies online at their convenience.

Education

Online learning platforms have emerged, enabling students to take courses from anywhere in the world.
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly accelerated the move to online classes, reshaping education globally.

Psychology

Studies have examined the effects of online interactions on mental health, highlighting both positive connections and potential issues like cyberbullying.
Spending time online can affect our attention spans and social skills, shifting how we interact with each other in real life.

Origin of 'online'

Main points about word origin

The term 'online' began appearing in the 1980s to describe computer operations connected to a network.
Before 'online', people used 'on-line' with a hyphen, reflecting the physical connections in telecommunications.

The term 'online' originated in the 1950s and initially referred to the state of being connected to a network or computer. It gained popularity in the 1990s with the rise of the internet and has since become a common term in everyday language, especially in the context of technology and communication.