Posted On: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
October 2, 2023

When someone says they've "posted on," they usually mean that they've uploaded or shared something on a platform, usually digital, like social media.  People often use this phrase to discuss their online sharing of content like pictures, videos, or articles. It’s like a virtual announcement that you’ve added something new for others to see.

In short:

"Posted on" primarily refers to the action of sharing or uploading content onto a digital platform.

What Does "Posted On" Mean?

Understanding the idiom is easier if we break it down. In this context, "posted" comes from the verb "to post," which means to make something publicly known by displaying it somewhere. The "on" refers to the location or platform where the content is shared. Together, it means making something public on a specific platform.

  • Primarily used for digital content like photos, videos, articles, etc.
  • Commonly used in relation to social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, etc.
  • Can also refer to posting on websites, blogs, and forums.

It’s a phrase that encapsulates the essence of the digital age, where sharing content has become a norm.

Where Does "Posted On" Come From?

The term "posted on" comes from the practice of physically posting announcements or advertisements on bulletin boards, walls, or poles. With the advent of the internet, this practice has shifted to digital platforms.

Historical Usage

"I posted on the town square bulletin about the upcoming fair."

- Diary entry, 19th Century

10 Examples of "Posted On" in Sentences

Let's explore how to use this phrase in a variety of sentences.

  • I posted on Instagram about my weekend trip.
  • I posted the trussed up turkey recipe on my cooking blog.
  • She posted on Facebook that she's getting married.
  • They posted on Twitter to share the news.
  • We should have posted on LinkedIn about the job openings.
  • You haven't posted on Snapchat as of late; what's going on?
  • Could you post that recipe on your food blog?
  • The news was posted on the website, keeping everyone treading water for updates.
  • The notice was posted, surprising those pegging out the laundry as rain approached.
  • Posting project updates is not my strong suit, but I kept stakeholders informed.

Examples of "Posted On" in Pop Culture

Pop culture has also made the term prevalent, particularly with the surge of social media influencers and celebrities sharing their lives online.

  • Beyoncé posted on Instagram when she was expecting twins, and it became one of the most liked posts ever.
  • Elon Musk often makes headlines for his Twitter posts, impacting stock markets and public opinion.
  • YouTube influencers like PewDiePie regularly update their fans about their upcoming videos by posting on their community tab.
  • TV shows like "Euphoria" gain additional buzz when the actors post on their social media platforms, building anticipation.
  • Politicians often post on their social media to connect directly with their constituency.

Synonyms: Other/Different Ways to Say "Posted On"

Apart from this idiom, other expressions communicate a comparable meaning.

  • Shared on
  • Uploaded to
  • Announced on
  • Displayed on

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Posted On"

  • What does this phrase mean?

The phrase "posted on" refers to the action of sharing or uploading content to a specific digital or physical platform. This could be anything from social media platforms to websites or even physical bulletin boards.

  • Where did this idiom originate?

The term originated from the historical practice of physically posting announcements, advertisements, or news on public boards, walls, or poles. With the rise of the internet, the action of "posting" transitioned to digital spaces.

  • Is this phrase exclusively employed for digital platforms?

Though the term is most commonly associated with digital platforms like social media, websites, and forums, it can also refer to the act of physically posting something on boards, walls, or other public spaces.

  • Is "posting on" the same as "commenting on"?

No, "posting" typically refers to sharing original content, while "commenting" involves reacting to or discussing someone else's post. A comment is generally shorter and is a secondary form of engagement compared to posting.

  • Is this term also used by businesses? 

Absolutely, businesses frequently use the term when they share updates, promotional materials, or advertisements on their social media platforms or websites. It's a part of modern business communication strategy.

  • How do I correctly use this phrase in a sentence?

To use "posted on" in a sentence, you can say something like, "I posted the latest updates on our company's LinkedIn page" or "She posted her vacation photos on Instagram."

  • Does this idiom fall under the category of formal or informal language?

While the term is generally considered informal, it can be used in more formal contexts depending on the situation. For example, in a corporate setting, one might say, "We posted the quarterly earnings report on our official website.

  • Why did this term gain such popularity?

The term has gained popularity due to the ubiquity of digital platforms and the role they play in modern communication. Virtually everyone who uses the internet has posted something online, making the term highly relatable and widely used.

  • Can using this idiom have negative connotations?

Yes, depending on the context. If the content posted is sensitive, controversial, or inappropriate, the term can carry negative implications. For example, "He posted offensive remarks on Twitter" would portray the action in a negative light.

  • What are some synonyms for this phrase?

Synonyms for the term include "shared on," "uploaded to," "announced on," and "displayed on." Each synonym has slightly different nuances but broadly serves to convey the idea of making content publicly accessible on a specific platform. 

Final Thoughts About "Posted On"

This idiom is an expression that has taken on new dimensions in the digital age.

  • Primarily used to describe the act of sharing or uploading content online.
  • Originated from the historical practice of posting announcements or information on public boards.
  • In everyday language and pop culture, people frequently use it, especially within the realm of social media.

Understanding this term is essential for navigating modern communication. As we've seen, this phrase encapsulates a significant aspect of how we interact and share information today, covering all of the above platforms and mediums.

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