C1verb2K

Circulate

UK //ˈsɜː.kjʊ.leɪt//US //ˈsɜr.kjə.leɪt//

Definition

To move or cause to move in a circular or repeated manner.

In simple words: To move around a place or to share information widely.

Examples

  • The rumor quickly began to circulate throughout the office.
  • Please circulate the report among the team members.
  • The air must circulate properly for the system to function.
  • News of the event started to circulate on social media.
  • They decided to circulate a petition for community changes.

Usage notes

Use 'circulate' when referring to spreading information or moving objects. Common in formal contexts. Avoid in casual speech unless referring to money or documents.

Grammar pattern

circulate + object

Memory hint

Think of a circle that continually moves around.

Collocations

  • circulate information
  • circulate documents
  • circulate ideas

Synonyms

  • disseminate
  • broadcast
  • spread
  • pass
  • share

Antonyms

  • stagnate
  • remain
  • stay

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'circulation' as a noun.
  • Incorrectly used with 'about' instead of 'around'.
  • Omitting the object in certain contexts.