What is the difference between onboard and on board ship?

Onboard vs. On Board: A Grammatical Distinction

The terms “onboard” and “on board” are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle grammatical difference between the two.

Onboard

“Onboard” is primarily used as an adjective to describe something that is attached or integrated into something else. For example:

• The ship’s onboard computer controls the navigation system.
• The aircraft’s onboard entertainment system provides passengers with movies and music.
• The company is onboarding new employees to enhance its workforce.

“Onboard” can also be used as a verb to describe the process of bringing someone or something onto a vehicle or vessel, particularly in the context of employee onboarding. For example:

• The passengers were onboarded the ship at the dock.
• The new hires were onboarded during a comprehensive orientation program.

On Board

In contrast, “on board” is typically used as an adverbial phrase to indicate the presence of someone or something within a vehicle or vessel. For example:

• The passengers are on board the ship and ready to sail.
• The cargo is on board the truck and will be delivered by tomorrow.
• The crew is on board the submarine and preparing for a dive.

“On board” can also be used figuratively to express agreement or acceptance of a proposal or idea. For example:

• I’m on board with the plan to renovate the office.
• The team is on board with the new marketing strategy.

Summary

The key difference between “onboard” and “on board” lies in their grammatical function. “Onboard” is an adjective or verb describing something attached or integrated into something else or the process of bringing someone or something onto a vehicle or vessel. “On board” is an adverbial phrase indicating presence within a vehicle or vessel, or agreement and acceptance of a proposal.