Contribution: meaning, definitions and examples

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contribution

 

[ ˌkɒntrɪˈbjuːʃən ]

Context #1 | Noun

financial

The act of giving money, help, or time in order to achieve a common goal, especially a charitable cause.

Synonyms

aid, donation, gift, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contribution

This word is generally used when referring to something provided to achieve a common goal, such as a team project, research, or a cause.

  • Her contribution to the team was invaluable.
  • The scientist made a significant contribution to the field of chemistry.
donation

Use this term when referring to giving money, goods, or services to a charitable cause or organization.

  • He made a large donation to the children's hospital.
  • They are collecting donations for the homeless shelter.
gift

This word is used when something is given voluntarily without the expectation of payment, often as a gesture of kindness or celebration.

  • He gave her a beautiful necklace as a birthday gift.
  • The company gave a holiday gift to all its employees.
support

Support is used when referring to providing assistance or encouragement for someone or something, either emotionally, financially, or physically.

  • Her family gave her a lot of emotional support during her illness.
  • They rely on financial support from their sponsors.
aid

Aid is often used when talking about help provided, especially in emergencies or difficult situations, such as humanitarian efforts or financial support.

  • The government sent aid to the flood victims.
  • She received financial aid for her education.

Examples of usage

  • He made a significant contribution to the charity.
  • Our company encourages employees to make contributions to local communities.
  • She has been recognized for her contributions to environmental conservation.
Context #2 | Noun

academic

A piece of writing or research produced as a result of study or collaboration, typically for publication in a journal or book.

Synonyms

article, paper, study.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contribution

Used when referring to the act of giving or adding something, such as money or effort, to help achieve a goal. Also applicable in academic or professional settings when referring to one's part in a group project or research.

  • Her contribution to the charity event was highly appreciated.
  • He made significant contributions to the research on climate change.
article

Used to describe a piece of writing published in a magazine, newspaper, or online. Generally, articles are short and aim to inform or provide commentary on specific topics.

  • She wrote an interesting article about the effects of social media on teenagers.
  • I read an article in the newspaper about the local elections.
paper

Typically used in academic settings to describe a scholarly essay or report written by students or researchers which presents findings on a specific topic.

  • He just finished writing a paper on the economic impacts of renewable energy.
  • Her paper was published in an academic journal.
study

Often used in scientific or academic contexts to describe detailed research exploring a particular subject or phenomenon.

  • The study revealed new insights into human behavior.
  • They conducted a study on the effects of a new drug.

Examples of usage

  • Her contribution to the field of psychology was groundbreaking.
  • The professor's contributions to the study of literature are widely respected.
Context #3 | Noun

general

An act of contributing or sharing, such as ideas, opinions, or effort.

Synonyms

input, involvement, participation.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
contribution

Use when referring to something that someone gives or donates, particularly in a material or substantial way.

  • Her contribution to the project was a new software tool.
  • The company's contribution to the charity was highly appreciated.
input

Often used when referring to someone's opinion, advice, or information given on a particular matter.

  • We value your input on the new policy.
  • His input helped shape the final design of the product.
participation

Refers to the act of taking part in an event or activity, usually in a formal or official way.

  • Participation in the workshop is mandatory for all employees.
  • Her participation in the competition earned her a silver medal.
involvement

Used when describing the act of taking part in an activity or being a part of something.

  • Her involvement in the community project made a significant impact.
  • He denied any involvement in the crime.

Examples of usage

  • Every team member's contribution is valuable to the project.
  • We appreciate your contribution to the discussion.

Translations

Translations of the word "contribution" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contribuição

🇮🇳 योगदान

🇩🇪 Beitrag

🇮🇩 kontribusi

🇺🇦 внесок

🇵🇱 wkład

🇯🇵 貢献 (こうけん)

🇫🇷 contribution

🇪🇸 contribución

🇹🇷 katkı

🇰🇷 기여 (기여)

🇸🇦 مساهمة

🇨🇿 příspěvek

🇸🇰 príspevok

🇨🇳 贡献 (贡献)

🇸🇮 prispevek

🇮🇸 framlag

🇰🇿 үлес

🇬🇪 წვლილი

🇦🇿 töhfə

🇲🇽 contribución

Etymology

The word 'contribution' originated from the Latin word 'contributio', which means 'a bringing together'. It first appeared in the English language in the late 14th century. The concept of contribution has been integral to human society, from sharing resources in ancient communities to supporting causes in modern times. The act of contributing reflects a sense of unity and cooperation towards a common goal.

See also: contribute, contributing, contributions, contributor, contributors.

Word Frequency Rank

This word ranks #1,766, placing it within important intermediate vocabulary. Learning it will significantly improve your ability to express yourself in English.