What does "participation" mean?

1. (taking part in an activity) the act of joining in or being part of an activity or event. 2. (consultation and involvement) the process of letting people give their opinions or help plan a project. 3. (financial interest) having a share in the profits or ownership of a business.

How do you use "participation"?

Usually takes the preposition 'in'. Often used in political or sociological contexts.

Is it correct to say "The participation to the event was high."?

No — say "The participation in the event was high.". Use the preposition 'in' after participation to show what activity people joined.

participation

US //pɑɹˌtɪsəˈpeɪʃən// UK //pɑːtˈɪsɪpˈeɪʃən// par·tic·i·pa·tion

1 taking part in an activity (n.)
B2 Upper Intermediate

the act of joining in or being part of an activity or event.

the act of participating or taking part in an event, activity, or collective effort.

Example

The teacher encouraged active participation in the classroom discussion.

Example

The success of the community garden project relied heavily on the consistent participation of local volunteers throughout the growing season.

Usage

Usually takes the preposition 'in'.
- absence
- non participation
- withdrawal
Pitfall

The participation to the event was high.

The participation in the event was high.

Use the preposition 'in' after participation to show what activity people joined.
2 consultation and involvement (n.)
C1 Advanced Academic Formal

the process of letting people give their opinions or help plan a project.

the systematic involvement of stakeholders or citizens in decision-making processes or project planning.

Example

The government promised more public participation in the new urban planning project.

Example

Effective democratic governance requires meaningful public participation rather than merely symbolic consultation sessions.

Usage

Often used in political or sociological contexts.
- consultation
- inclusion
- exclusion

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3 financial interest (n.)
C2 Proficiency Technical Formal Law

having a share in the profits or ownership of a business.

a right to share in the profits or a specific ownership interest in a financial venture.

Example

The contract included a profit participation clause for the lead investors.

Example

The bank secured a participation in the loan syndicate, allowing it to share the risk and the interest returns with other lenders.

Origin

From Middle English participacioun, from Middle French [Term?], from Old French participacion, from Late Latin participatiō. By surface analysis, participate + -ion.