power on
A2 neutral separable both
In simple words
To turn a machine or device on so it starts working.
Literal meaning: Switching the electrical power to the 'on' state — entirely transparent.
Meanings
1 A2 neutral
To turn on an electronic device by connecting it to power.
"Power on the projector before the presentation starts."
Grammar: separable
2 A2 neutral
For a device to start up when power is supplied to it.
"The console powers on instantly — there's no loading screen."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Common in technical contexts and everyday use with electronics. Often labelled on buttons as 'Power On'. The opposite of 'power off'. Also appears in compound adjective form: 'power-on self-test' (POST) in computing.
Commonly used with
device computer console screen system phone
Forms
Base
power on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
powers on
he/she/it
Past simple
powered on
yesterday
Past participle
powered on
have + pp
-ing form
powering on
continuous
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Synonyms
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