A2verb1K

Involve

UK /["/ɪnˈvɒlv/","/ɪnˈvɒlvz/","/ɪnˈvɒlvd/","/ɪnˈvɒlvɪŋ/"]/US /["/ɪnˈvɑːlv/","/ɪnˈvɑːlvz/","/ɪnˈvɑːlvd/","/ɪnˈvɑːlvɪŋ/"]/

Definition

if a situation, an event or an activity involves something, that thing is an important or necessary part or result of it

In simple words: To include someone or something in an activity or situation.

Examples

  • We need to involve everyone in the decision-making process.
  • The project will involve various stages of development.
  • To truly involve your team, you should listen to their ideas.
  • She was happy to involve her friends in the celebration.
  • Playing the game can involve a lot of strategy and teamwork.

Usage notes

Use 'involve' in situations where someone is active in a task or event. It's appropriate in both spoken and written contexts, but might be too formal for casual conversations. Don't confuse it with 'involvement,' which is a noun.

Grammar pattern

involve + object

Memory hint

Think of 'involve' as 'in the fold'—when you're involved, you're in the group.

Collocations

  • generally
  • typically
  • usually
  • actively
  • directly
  • in
  • actively
  • directly
  • in

Synonyms

  • include
  • engage
  • participate
  • entail
  • incorporate

Antonyms

  • exclude
  • leave out

Common mistakes

  • Using 'involve' with an incorrect subject, e.g., 'He involves to help.' instead of 'He is involved in helping.'
  • Saying 'involves to' when the correct form is 'involve in'.
  • Confusing 'involve' with 'include' without considering the difference in agency.