Synonyms of participate

participate

verb

pär-ˈti-sə-ˌpāt 

as in to share

to take a share or part

eager to participate in the city's cultural life

Synonyms & Similar Words

• share
• know
• partake
• experience
• receive
• undergo
• feel
• see
• endure
• accept
• meet
• taste
• encounter

Synonym Chooser

How is the word participate distinct from other similar verbs?

The words partake and share are common synonyms of participate. While all three words mean "to have, get, or use in common with another or others," participate implies a having or taking part in an undertaking, activity, or discussion.

participated in sports

When can partake be used instead of participate?

The words partake and participate can be used in similar contexts, but partake implies accepting or acquiring a share especially of food or drink.

partook freely of the refreshments

Where would share be a reasonable alternative to participate?

While in some cases nearly identical to participate, share usually implies that one as the original holder grants to another the partial use, enjoyment, or possession of a thing.

shared my toys with the others

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of participate

The leg saw the duos participate in a lifeguard rescue, a sailing obstacle course and an extreme hydroflight, before sending them off to complete one of the series’ wildest puzzles to date. —Nick Caruso, TVLine, 16 May 2025

Until last year, the contest prohibited the display of flags from countries not participating in the competition. —Itay Stern, NPR, 16 May 2025

The idea that some individuals may seek to block others from participating in international festivals goes against the principles of artistic freedom — and even against basic human rights. —Nick Vivarelli, Variety, 5 May 2025

Read More: Pope Francis’ Legacy Is Celebrated by Mourners at His Funeral: ‘His Tolerance and Humility Changed the Catholic Church’ Eligible cardinals can choose not to participate Despite being 76, Cardinal Angelo Becciu will not be part of the election for the next head of the Catholic Church. —Callum Sutherland, Time, 3 May 2025