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What is the Meaning of “Communicate”?

Communicate
/kəˈmjuːnɪkeɪt/
verb B1 Tier 4 (Top 10,000 words)

To share information or messages with someone so they understand your thoughts.

Definition of Communicate

Quick Meaning of Communicate

To share information or messages with someone so they understand your thoughts.

Detailed Definition of Communicate

To exchange or share information, ideas, or feelings with another person or group.

How to Pronounce Communicate

IPA: /kəˈmjuːnɪkeɪt/
com mu ni cate

Stress pattern: oOoo (4-syllable word).

Tip: Stress the second syllable: kuh-MYOO-nih-kayt. The 'u' sounds like 'you'.

Watch out: Often mispronounced as 'com-moo-nuh-kate' with stress on first syllable; correct stress is second syllable.

Full pronunciation guide for “communicate” →

Origin and Etymology of Communicate

From Latin communicare: 'to share' or 'make common'.

How to Use Communicate in a Sentence

Each example shows “communicate” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.

  • “I communicate with my manager every week about project updates.”
    B1 formal
  • “The team communicates using email and video calls when working remotely.”
    B1 conversation
  • “Good communication skills help doctors communicate better with patients.”
    B2 academic

Synonyms and Antonyms of Communicate

Common Synonyms for Communicate

Smart Synonyms for Communicate — When to Use Each

convey
when emphasizing the transfer of a message or
express
when the focus is on showing your thoughts

Antonyms of Communicate

See all synonyms for “communicate” →

Common Collocations with Communicate

These phrases pair with “communicate” in everyday English:

  • communicate with someone
  • communicate effectively
  • communicate the message
  • communicate through email
  • communicate across cultures

Common Mistakes When Using Communicate

Even fluent speakers slip up with “communicate”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:

✗ Wrong: She communicates to her team about the deadline.
✓ Correct: She communicates with her team about the deadline.
Why: Use 'with' to show the receiver, not 'to'. Preposition lock.
✗ Wrong: He communicate with them every day.
✓ Correct: He communicates with them every day.
Why: Third person singular requires -s: he/she/it communicates (not communicate).

Words Confused With Communicate

  • Communicate vs Communicate with: Must use 'with' not 'to' when naming the recipient

Other Forms of Communicate

Frequently Asked Questions About Communicate

What is the meaning of "Communicate"?

To share information or messages with someone so they understand your thoughts.

How do you pronounce "Communicate"?

The IPA is /kəˈmjuːnɪkeɪt/. Stress the second syllable: kuh-MYOO-nih-kayt. The 'u' sounds like 'you'.

What part of speech is "Communicate"?

"Communicate" is a verb at B1 level (Common European Framework).

What are synonyms for "Communicate"?

Common synonyms include convey, express, articulate.

How do you use "Communicate" in a sentence?

For example: "I communicate with my manager every week about project updates."

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