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contribute

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /kənˈtrɪb.juːt/

KK: /kənˈtrɪbjut/

intransitive verb
Definition

To give or add something, especially to help achieve a goal or support a cause.


Example

She contributes to the local food bank every month.


Tense Forms

Past: contributed

Past Participle: contributed


Conversation
Sloth A
I really want to contribute to the community this year.
Sloth B
That's a great idea! How do you plan to do that?
Sloth A
I was thinking about volunteering at the local shelter to contribute my time.
Sloth B
That sounds perfect! I'm sure they would appreciate your help.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
donate
assist
help
Antonyms
hinder
impede
detract
transitive verb
Definition

To give something, such as money, help, or ideas, to a group or project so that it can be used by others.


Example

She decided to contribute her time to help the local charity.


Tense Forms

Past: contributed

Past Participle: contributed


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you thought about how you can contribute to the community project?
Sloth B
I have! I could help with the fundraising events.
Sloth A
That sounds great! Every little bit we contribute makes a difference.
Root Explanation

Contribute → It is formed from "con-" (meaning together) and "tribuere" (meaning to give or assign). The word describes the act of giving or providing something together with others.

Memory Tip

Think of people 'giving' ('tribuere') something 'together' ('con-') — that's why contribute means to give together.

Visually Confused Words
recontribute
uncontributed
precontribute
overcontribute
tribute
uncontrite
precontributive
constitute
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Exactly! I'm excited to see what we can achieve together.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
donate
provide
supply
Antonyms
withhold
retain
refuse