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
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Recent Examples of participateDuring the 2024 election, nearly 65% of the citizen voting age population participated in the general election, which is the second highest turnout in the last five presidential elections.—Ashley Lopez, NPR, 1 July 2025 Now, Anderson said there are only about 20, more than half of whom participate in the teen parenting and childcare program.—K. Mauser, Baltimore Sun, 30 June 2025 What To Know The Dalai Lama will participate in a series of events this week, including a major gathering of Buddhist leaders, in what Tibetan officials say will be a crucial moment for the future of their religious leadership.—Jordan King, MSNBC Newsweek, 30 June 2025 Throughout the day, visitors checked out the exhibit, participated in their own art projects and enjoyed entertainment.—Lillian Ashworth, Oc Register, 22 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for participate
By building digital ecosystems where companies can work together and share real-time data, industry leaders create a supply chain that is not only more responsive, agile and resilient but also elastic—a concept Gartner highlights as critical for modern supply chains.
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Jim Bureau,
Forbes.com,
7 July 2025
Snoop’s introduction of Baby Boy comes after the rapper shared the news on June 12 that his beloved French bulldog Juelz had died.
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