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

Tiffany Feder, Dahan’s attorney, described the issue as a mix-up, and said her client never intended to illegally participate in voting. — Kevin Rector, Los Angeles Times, 2 Nov. 2026

Raki McGregor described his responsibilities as coordinating the government agencies, businesses and other organizations participating in the project. — Charlotte Observer, 2 Nov. 2026

The researchers also found that while voting in 2012 carried a 32% lower risk of early death, participating in the 2004 election was not associated with lower or higher odds — and the reason why is unclear. — Kristen Rogers, CNN Money, 2 Nov. 2026

Voters who agree to participate fill out a short, confidential questionnaire and place it in a ballot box. — ABC News, 2 Nov. 2026