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."
inseparable
clock on
B1 neutral inseparable intransitive
To record the start of your working shift; a British variant of 'clock in.'
In plain English
To use a machine or card to show that you have started your work shift.
What does "clock on" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To activate ('on') the clock/timekeeping system.
Actually means
To use a machine or card to show that you have started your work shift.
Usage tip
Predominantly British English, especially in northern England and Scotland. Less common than 'clock in' in international usage. Used in factories, warehouses, and similar workplaces.
Words that pair with "clock on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
shift work factory time machine morning
How to conjugate "clock on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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
Hear "clock on" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "clock on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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