Subscribe: meaning, definitions and examples

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[səbˈskraɪb ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

to receive or obtain regularly

To subscribe means to arrange to receive something regularly, such as a magazine or a service, typically by paying in advance. It can also refer to agreeing to become a member of a group or to support an organization financially on a regular basis.

Synonyms

enroll, join, register, sign up.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subscribe	Used when someone wants to receive regular updates or publications like magazines, newsletters, or online content. I decided to subscribe to the tech newsletter to stay updated. You can subscribe to our YouTube channel for more videos.
enroll	Commonly used in educational contexts when someone signs up for a course, school, or class. She decided to enroll in a Spanish language course. They enrolled their child in a private school.
sign up	Informal term often used for initiating participation in activities, services, or events usually through the internet or in person. He signed up for the free trial of the streaming service. You need to sign up for the marathon by tomorrow.
join	Used when someone becomes a member of a group, club, or activity. It implies becoming part of a collective. I want to join the book club that's meeting every Friday. He joined the local soccer team last summer.
register	Often used in formal or official contexts where one's details are recorded, such as for events, online services, or voting. You need to register for the conference by the end of the month. She registered her new car at the DMV.

Examples of usage

I subscribe to a monthly beauty box service.
She subscribes to several news websites to stay informed.
They decided to subscribe to the local theater's season pass.
In order to access exclusive content, you need to subscribe to their website.
Many people choose to subscribe to streaming services for entertainment.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

to express agreement or approval

To subscribe can also mean to express agreement or approval of an idea, belief, or theory. It indicates that one supports or accepts something, usually intellectually or emotionally.

Synonyms

accept, believe in, endorse, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
subscribe	Used when you want to regularly receive something, like a service or publication. It can also refer to agreeing to a certain set of ideas or principles. I decided to subscribe to the digital magazine Many people subscribe to the idea of lifelong learning
endorse	Used when publicly or officially supporting or approving something or someone, often associated with advertisements or formal recommendations. The celebrity endorsed the new fitness product The professor endorsed the candidate for the position
support	Used when providing assistance, encouragement, or approval to someone or something, often involves sustained help and backing. They support local businesses by shopping there regularly She supports her friend through tough times
believe in	Used when you have faith or trust in the existence or truth of something, often used for ideas, principles, or people. I believe in the power of positive thinking She believes in her team's ability to win
accept	Used when you agree to take something that is offered or recognize something as valid or correct. She accepted the job offer without hesitation It took him a while to accept the reality of the situation

Examples of usage

I subscribe to the idea that hard work pays off.
She subscribes to the philosophy of living in the moment.
They don't subscribe to the notion of giving up easily.
As a scientist, he subscribes to the theory of evolution.
Many people subscribe to the belief in karma.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Latin 'subscribere,' meaning 'to write below,' indicating your agreement or commitment.
Historically, to subscribe meant literally to sign one's name beneath a document, showing support or approval.

Media and Communication

In the digital age, subscribing to a channel or newsletter typically means you will receive updates consistently.
Platforms like YouTube and Spotify have revolutionized the subscription model, allowing users to engage with creators regularly.

Economics

Subscriptions also play a crucial role in business models, providing companies with steady revenue through recurring payments.
Services like Netflix and Amazon Prime illustrate how subscriptions can change consumption habits, focusing on access over ownership.

Psychology

Subscribing can create a sense of belonging or community, as individuals often feel connected to the creators or brands they follow.
The act of subscribing triggers a small dopamine release in the brain, creating anticipation for future content.

Pop Culture

Shows, podcasts, and influencers often encourage viewers to subscribe as a way to grow their audience and maintain engagement.
The trend of 'subscribe and like' has become a common call to action in various media formats, showcasing its significance in modern communication.

Translations

Translations of the word "subscribe" in other languages:

🇵🇹 inscrever-se

🇮🇳 सदस्यता लेना

🇩🇪 abonnieren

🇮🇩 berlangganan

🇺🇦 підписатися

🇵🇱 subskrybować

🇯🇵 購読する (こうどくする)

🇫🇷 s'abonner

🇪🇸 suscribirse

🇹🇷 abone olmak

🇰🇷 구독하다

🇸🇦 الاشتراك

🇨🇿 předplatit

🇸🇰 predplatiť

🇨🇳 订阅 (dìngyuè)

🇸🇮 naročiti se

🇮🇸 skrá sig

🇰🇿 жазылу

🇬🇪 გამოწერა

🇦🇿 abunə olmaq

🇲🇽 suscribirse

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,749 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.

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8746 skeletal
8747 imperialism
8748 meadow
8749 subscribe
8750 psychologists
8751 spun
8752 arbitrator
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