contribute
6 synonyms and 0 antonyms for contribute, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Verb — To give something, such as money, effort, or ideas, that becomes part of a larger effort or whole.
Synonyms
Everyday swaps
Common words most readers know — safe in any writing.
Less common
Still standard English, but they carry more weight.
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use contribute
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
Etymology
From Latin contributus, past participle of contribuere ("to bring together, unite"), from con- ("together") plus tribuere ("to bestow, allot").
Full origin of contribute →Frequently asked questions
What does “contribute” mean?
The word “contribute” means to give something, such as money, effort, or ideas, that becomes part of a larger effort or whole. In plain terms, to add your share — money, effort, or ideas — to something bigger.
How do you pronounce “contribute”?
“Contribute” is pronounced kuhn-TRIHB-yoot (/kənˈtɹɪb.jut/ in IPA).
How do you use “contribute” in a sentence?
Here is “contribute” used in a sentence: “Everyone in the office contributed to the leaving gift.”
What part of speech is “contribute”?
“Contribute” is a verb.
Where does the word “contribute” come from?
The word “contribute” comes from Latin. From Latin contributus, past participle of contribuere ("to bring together, unite"), from con- ("together") plus tribuere ("to bestow, allot").
Is “contribute” a common word?
“Contribute” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.
What is the difference between contribute and donate?
To contribute is to give money, effort, or ideas that become part of a larger effort or whole, and it covers many kinds of giving. To donate is narrower and usually refers specifically to giving money or goods, often to a charity or cause; you can contribute ideas or labour, but you would not normally 'donate' them.
Do you say 'contribute to' or 'contribute towards'?
Both are correct. 'Contribute to' is the more common and versatile choice, while 'contribute towards' tends to stress giving part of a total, as in contributing towards the cost of a gift.
What is the difference between contribute and participate?
To contribute is to give something, such as money, effort, or ideas, that adds to a larger whole. To participate is simply to take part in an activity; you can participate in a meeting without contributing anything, and you can contribute money without personally participating.