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noun B1 Intermediate Common

contribution

kont-rih-BYOO-shuhn

Contribution (noun) means something given, such as money, time, or effort, that adds to a bigger effort. Example: “Her contribution to the charity was generous.”

noun
1
Something given, such as money, time, or effort, that adds to a bigger effort.
"Her contribution to the charity was generous."
"His research made a major contribution to the field."

How to use contribution

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishWhat someone gives or adds toward a shared goal or cause.

Common pairings
make a contribution valuable contribution financial contribution

Word forms

contributions plural

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Test yourself on “contribution” A quick quiz — meaning, synonyms & usage

Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Her _____ to the charity was generous.

Etymology

From Old French contribution, from Latin contributio, from contribuere ("to bring together"); by formation, contribute plus -ion.

Origin: Latin

Related words

Rhymes for contribution

See all rhymes for contribution →

Frequently asked questions

What does “contribution” mean?

The word “contribution” means something given, such as money, time, or effort, that adds to a bigger effort. In plain terms, what someone gives or adds toward a shared goal or cause.

How do you pronounce “contribution”?

“Contribution” is pronounced kont-rih-BYOO-shuhn (/ˌkɑntɹɪˈbjuʃən/ in IPA).

How do you use “contribution” in a sentence?

Here is “contribution” used in a sentence: “Her contribution to the charity was generous.”

What part of speech is “contribution”?

“Contribution” is a noun.

Where does the word “contribution” come from?

The word “contribution” comes from Latin. From Old French contribution, from Latin contributio, from contribuere ("to bring together"); by formation, contribute plus -ion.

Is “contribution” a common word?

“Contribution” is a fairly common word in modern English, usually learned at around the B1 level.

What is the difference between a contribution and a donation?

A contribution is something given, such as money, time, or effort, that adds to a bigger effort. A donation almost always refers to money or goods given to a charity or cause, so it is narrower; a contribution can be non-material, such as ideas or labour.

Do you say 'contribution to' or 'contribution towards'?

Both are acceptable. 'Contribution to' is the general form for adding to a project, fund, or field, while 'contribution towards' often highlights that the amount is part of a larger total, such as a contribution towards someone's expenses.

What is the difference between a contribution and an input?

A contribution is something given that adds to a bigger effort, and it can be money, time, or effort. 'Input' usually refers specifically to ideas, information, or feedback that someone offers, making it a narrower kind of contribution.

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