Collect: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'collect' when referring to bringing items together systematically or as a hobby. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

• She likes to collect stamps from different countries.
• The charity is organizing a drive to collect donations for the homeless.

Use 'gather' when referring to bringing together items or people, typically in an informal context. It suggests a bringing together for a purpose or event.

• Let's gather some flowers for the centerpiece.
• People began to gather in the town square for the parade.

Use 'accumulate' when referring to gathering items over time, often without a specific order. It often implies a gradual increase and can carry a formal tone.

• Over the years, he managed to accumulate a significant amount of wealth.
• Dust began to accumulate on the shelves as nobody cleaned the room.

Use 'assemble' when referring to putting the parts of something together, often something that is built or constructed. It is commonly used in contexts like instructions, meetings, and gatherings.

• The workers will assemble the new furniture in the office tomorrow.
• All the team members will assemble in the conference room at 10 AM.

Used when gathering items or data from various places, either physically or as information.

• She likes to collect stamps from different countries
• The teacher asked the students to collect information on ancient civilizations

Highlights the process of choosing from a set of options or a small group of choices available, often implying a considered or curated choice.

• He made a careful selection of the best books to read
• The chef’s special selection includes the finest ingredients

Refers to a variety or mix of different items or things and is often used when emphasizing the diversity or range of the selection.

• The gift shop has an assortment of souvenirs
• We were offered an assortment of desserts at the party

Typically used to describe a place where art is exhibited, but can also refer to a collection of images or objects displayed together online or physically.

• We visited the art gallery downtown
• The website has a gallery of the latest product designs