clock on
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To use a machine or card to show that you have started your work shift.
Literal meaning: To activate ('on') the clock/timekeeping system.
Meanings
1 B1 neutral
To record the start of a work shift using a timekeeping machine or system.
"You need to clock on at the terminal by the entrance before your shift begins."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To notice or become aware of something (British informal; same as 'clock onto').
"It took him a while, but he finally clocked on that everyone was laughing at his joke."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Predominantly British English, especially in northern England and Scotland. Less common than 'clock in' in international usage. Used in factories, warehouses, and similar workplaces.
Commonly used with
shift work factory time machine morning
Forms
Base
clock on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
clocks on
he/she/it
Past simple
clocked on
yesterday
Past participle
clocked on
have + pp
-ing form
clocking on
continuous
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