# contribution

/ˌkɑntɹəbˈjuʃən/ (US) · /kˌɒntɹɪbjˈuːʃən/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/contribution
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. an item or idea given

noun · CEFR B2

something you provide, like an idea or a piece of writing, that adds to a larger project.

For teachers: an individual component, such as an article, idea, or suggestion, provided to a larger work or project.

- The editor thanked her for her valuable contribution to the monthly magazine.
- Each researcher provided a unique contribution to the final report, ensuring that every aspect of the environmental impact was thoroughly addressed.

Usage: Often used with the preposition 'to'.

### 2. money given

noun · CEFR B2

an amount of money you give to help pay for something or to help a charity.

For teachers: a sum of money donated to a cause, fund, or organisation.

- The charity received a generous contribution from an anonymous donor.
- The government matched every private contribution to the disaster relief fund, effectively doubling the total amount raised within forty-eight hours.

### 3. an achievement or help

noun · CEFR B2

the help or work you do that leads to a result or progress.

For teachers: the act of playing a part in a process that results in progress or success.

- His contribution to the team's victory was praised by the coach.
- The scientist was awarded a prestigious medal for her significant contribution to the field of cancer research over the last decade.

## Examples

- Your contribution to the team project was very helpful.
- The charity relies on the monthly contribution of local businesses to keep the community center open.
- The scientist was honored for her significant contribution to cancer research, which fundamentally changed how doctors approach early-stage treatment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.