# participatory

/ˌpɑɹˈtɪsəpəˌtɔɹi/ (US) · /pɑːtˈɪsɪpətəɹˌi/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/participatory
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

describing an activity or system where everyone involved has a chance to join in and help make decisions.

For teachers: relating to or involving the active participation of those concerned, especially in a social or political context. Often used to describe democratic or educational models that decentralise power.

## Examples

- The school uses a participatory approach to learning.
- The city council introduced participatory budgeting, allowing residents to vote directly on how to spend local funds.
- Scholars argue that participatory media platforms have fundamentally altered the relationship between content creators and their audiences by blurring the lines of traditional authority.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun; often appears in academic or political contexts.

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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.