B1verb1K

Combine

UK /["/kəmˈbaɪn/","/kəmˈbaɪnz/","/kəmˈbaɪnd/","/kəmˈbaɪnɪŋ/"]/US /["/kəmˈbaɪn/","/kəmˈbaɪnz/","/kəmˈbaɪnd/","/kəmˈbaɪnɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to come together to form a single thing or group; to join two or more things or groups together to form a single one

In simple words: To join two or more things together.

Examples

  • You can combine ingredients to create a delicious meal.
  • The company plans to combine its two divisions for better efficiency.
  • She decided to combine her savings with her partner's to buy a house.
  • The software allows users to combine different file formats easily.
  • In chemistry, you can combine elements to form compounds.
  • They wanted to combine forces to tackle the problem more effectively.
  • He used a special machine to combine the concrete and sand.
  • To improve your presentation, you should combine visuals with your speech.

Usage notes

Used in both spoken and written English; common in cooking, science, and teamwork contexts. Avoid using in very informal situations where simpler terms like 'mix' may be preferred.

Grammar pattern

combine + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'comb' that unites hair strands together.

Collocations

  • successfully
  • well
  • against
  • with

Synonyms

  • merge
  • unite
  • blend
  • fuse
  • conjoin

Antonyms

  • separate
  • divide
  • disjoin

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'combin' which is not a real word.
  • Incorrectly using 'combine' with a subject (e.g., 'I combine an idea') instead of an object.
  • Using 'combined' when 'combine' is needed in a present tense context.