What does ‘onsite’ mean?
The term onsite/on-site, written as a single word, is typically an adjective or adverb that refers to something that occurs at a particular location or place, typically a place of work, a project site, or an event location. It often suggests that the activity, service, or task is being conducted physically at the site rather than remotely or offsite. For instance, onsite teaching refers to teaching that takes place in a physical classroom or educational setting, where both the instructor and students are present in person, as opposed to remote or online teaching.
‘Onsite’ or ‘on-site’: which one is correct?
Both ‘onsite’ and ‘on-site’ are commonly used, but the choice between the two depends on the style guide or preference.
‘On-site’ (hyphenated): This is the more traditional form and is commonly used in formal writing, especially when the term is used as an adjective before a noun (e.g., ‘on-site meeting’, ‘on-site training’, ‘on-site inspection’, ‘on-site teaching’).
‘Onsite’ (closed form): This is a more modern, streamlined version and has become increasingly accepted, especially in less formal contexts or in tech-related fields. It’s more common in digital and business language, like ‘onsite support’ or ‘onsite services’.
You can use onsite or on-site. Both words appear in the dictionary. Both versions of the word are correct – but you should pick one and use that word consistently. Compound adjectives in front of a noun are usually hyphenated to make the meaning clearer.
There is also ‘on site’ (without hyphen). This form is used to describe something that is physically present or available at a particular location. It means at the place where people work, study, or stay. For instance: ‘The construction workers are on site’ or ‘Here’s a bar, restaurant, and gym on site’.
It also worth mentioning that when focusing on the physical presence of people, such as at a meeting, event, or interview, we can also use ‘in-person’ (e.g., in-person meeting, in-person interview).