B2verb 2K

Activate

🇬🇧 UK /["/ˈæktɪveɪt/","/ˈæktɪveɪts/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪd/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪŋ/"]/ 🇺🇸 US /["/ˈæktɪveɪt/","/ˈæktɪveɪts/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪd/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪŋ/"]/

Meaning of Activate

to make something such as a device or chemical process start working

In simple words: to make something start working

Activate in a sentence

• The burglar alarm is activated by movement.
• The gene is activated by a specific protein.

How to use Activate

Commonly used in technical contexts (like computers or devices) and less formal situations. Avoid using in highly formal writing.

Grammar pattern

activate + object

Memory hint

Think 'active!' – like making something lively and functional.

Related words

Collocations with Activate

• activate a device
• activate an account
• activate a feature
• activate a plan

Synonyms for Activate

• turn on
• set off
• enable
• trigger
• engage

Opposites of Activate

• deactivate
• disable
• stop

Common mistakes with Activate

• Using 'activates' when the subject is plural.
• Confusing with 'initiate' in more formal contexts.
• Misplacing the object (e.g., 'activate to system' instead of 'activate the system').

Frequently asked questions about Activate

What does Activate mean?

to make something start working

What is the definition of Activate?

to make something such as a device or chemical process start working

How do you use Activate in a sentence?

The burglar alarm is activated by movement.

Can you give another example of Activate?

The gene is activated by a specific protein.

What are synonyms for Activate?

Common alternatives include turn on, set off, enable, trigger, engage.

What is the opposite of Activate?

Opposite meanings include deactivate, disable, stop.

What words go with Activate?

It commonly pairs with activate a device, activate an account, activate a feature, activate a plan.

What are common mistakes when using Activate?

Using 'activates' when the subject is plural. Confusing with 'initiate' in more formal contexts. Misplacing the object (e.g., 'activate to system' instead of 'activate the system').

How do you pronounce Activate?

US: /["/ˈæktɪveɪt/","/ˈæktɪveɪts/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪd/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪŋ/"]/, UK: /["/ˈæktɪveɪt/","/ˈæktɪveɪts/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪd/","/ˈæktɪveɪtɪŋ/"]/. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

When should I use Activate?

Commonly used in technical contexts (like computers or devices) and less formal situations. Avoid using in highly formal writing.

What CEFR level is Activate?

"Activate" is at B2 level on the CEFR scale.