Combine: meaning, definitions and examples

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combine

 

[ kəmˈbaɪn ]

Verb / Noun
Oxford 3000
Context #1 | Verb

in cooking

To mix or blend different ingredients together to create a single substance.

Synonyms

blend, merge, mix.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
combine

Utilize 'combine' when joining two or more elements together to work as a whole. It often refers to bringing distinct items into one singular entity.

  • He combined all the ingredients to make the perfect cake
  • They decided to combine their resources to start a new business
mix

Opt for 'mix' when combining substances or elements, usually referring to making a uniform or thorough amalgamation, often used in cooking or casual conversation.

  • You need to mix the flour and water thoroughly to make dough
  • She mixed the cards before dealing them out
blend

Use 'blend' when incorporating multiple elements in a way that they harmonize and work smoothly together. This is commonly used with flavors, colors, or anything that requires a smooth mixture.

  • She blended different spices to create a unique flavor
  • The artist blended several colors to produce a stunning painting
merge

Employ 'merge' when bringing two or more entities together to become one, particularly in more formal or technical settings like businesses or roads.

  • The two companies decided to merge to streamline their operations
  • The lanes will merge ahead, so drivers need to be cautious

Examples of usage

  • Combine the flour, sugar, and eggs in a bowl.
  • After combining all the ingredients, bake the cake for 30 minutes.
Context #2 | Verb

in teamwork

To work together with others towards a common goal or objective.

Synonyms

collaborate, cooperate, unite.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
combine

This word is used when two or more things are brought together to form a single entity or to achieve a specific purpose.

  • The chef decided to combine all the ingredients to create a new dish.
  • We should combine our efforts to complete the project on time.
collaborate

Use this word when people or groups work together on a task or project, especially in a professional or creative setting.

  • The two companies agreed to collaborate on developing new technology.
  • Scientists from different countries collaborate on the research to find a cure.
unite

This word is used when individuals or groups come together to form a single unit or to act together towards a common goal, often in a more formal or significant context.

  • The nations decided to unite for the cause of world peace.
  • The workers united to demand better working conditions.
cooperate

This word is appropriate when emphasizing working together willingly for a common purpose, often with a focus on mutual assistance and absence of conflicts.

  • The students need to cooperate to complete the group assignment.
  • Local businesses cooperate with the community to organize the event.

Examples of usage

  • The team members combined their skills to complete the project on time.
  • We need to combine our efforts to achieve success.
Context #3 | Noun

in mathematics

A group of numbers or terms that are brought together and treated as a single entity.

Synonyms

collection, grouping, set.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
combine

Often used when indicating the action of putting two or more things together to form a single entity.

  • When you combine flour and water, you get dough.
  • We need to combine our efforts to finish this project.
grouping

Typically used when arranging things into groups based on certain criteria, often for easier understanding or organization.

  • The items on the list need proper grouping according to their types.
  • In the study, participants were divided into four groupings.
set

Used to refer to a collection of distinct items considered as a unit. Often used in mathematics, collections, or organized series.

  • The box contains a set of tools.
  • In mathematics, a set is a well-defined collection of distinct objects.
collection

Refers to a group of items gathered together, usually of the same kind, and often for a specific purpose or because they are valued.

  • He has a large collection of vintage records.
  • The museum's collection includes several rare artifacts.

Examples of usage

  • The combination of numbers in the equation resulted in a unique solution.
  • Understanding the concept of combinations is essential in probability.

Translations

Translations of the word "combine" in other languages:

🇵🇹 combinar

🇮🇳 मिलाना

🇩🇪 kombinieren

🇮🇩 menggabungkan

🇺🇦 поєднувати

🇵🇱 łączyć

🇯🇵 組み合わせる (kumiawaseru)

🇫🇷 combiner

🇪🇸 combinar

🇹🇷 birleştirmek

🇰🇷 결합하다

🇸🇦 دمج

🇨🇿 kombinovat

🇸🇰 kombinovať

🇨🇳 结合 (jiéhé)

🇸🇮 kombinirati

🇮🇸 sameina

🇰🇿 біріктіру

🇬🇪 შეერთება

🇦🇿 birləşdirmək

🇲🇽 combinar

Etymology

The word 'combine' originated from the Latin word 'combinare', which means 'to unite'. It has been used in various contexts throughout history, from agriculture to mathematics. The concept of combining elements to create something new is fundamental in many areas of life, such as cooking, teamwork, and science.

See also: combinable, combination, combined, combining, recombination.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,459, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.