Contributing
/kənˈtrɪbjətɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo give something (such as money, time, or effort) to a common supply, fund, or cause.
/kənˈtrɪbjətɪŋ/
To give something, especially money, to help achieve or provide something.
He is contributing a large sum of money to the project.
💡 Simply: Imagine you're helping a friend out. If you're contributing, you're giving them something—money, time, ideas—to help them reach a goal. Like, contributing to a pizza fund means everyone puts in some money to buy the pizza!
👶 For kids: Giving something to help, like putting your toys away to help keep the room clean.
More Examples
She is contributing to the discussion with valuable insights.
The volunteers are contributing their time to help those affected by the disaster.
How It's Used
"Many individuals are contributing to the charity to support its cause."
"The team members are contributing their time and skills to the project."
To help to cause or bring about.
/kənˈtrɪbjətɪŋ/
To be a factor in bringing about a result.
His hard work contributed to his team's victory.
💡 Simply: When things contribute, it means they help make something happen. Like, if you study hard, that's contributing to you getting good grades.
👶 For kids: Helping something happen, like when sunshine contributes to the growth of plants.
More Examples
The weather conditions were contributing to the traffic delays.
Lack of sleep contributed to her poor performance.
How It's Used
"Several factors were contributing to the overall increase in temperature."
"His experience contributed to his success."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
From the Latin *contribuere* (to bestow, to contribute), from *con-* (together) + *tribuere* (to assign).
Historically used in financial contexts, e.g., 'He did contribute generously to the church.'
Memory tip
Think of a 'tribe' coming 'together' (con-) and giving (tribuere) for a common goal. Contribute!
Word Origin
"to bestow, to contribute"