C1noun2K

Subscription

UK /["/səbˈskrɪpʃn/"]/US /["/səbˈskrɪpʃn/"]/

Definition

an amount of money that you pay regularly to receive a service, be a member of a club, support a charity or receive regular copies of a newspaper or magazine; the act of paying this money

In simple words: Paying regularly to get something, like a service or a magazine.

Examples

  • I decided to start a subscription for the monthly magazine to stay updated.
  • The newspaper offers a digital subscription that allows access to all articles online.
  • Her subscription to the gym ensures she can attend classes anytime.
  • Many streaming services rely on subscription models to generate revenue.
  • He canceled his subscription after realizing he rarely used the service.

Usage notes

Typically used when discussing services like software, streaming, or magazines. Avoid in informal spoken contexts unless referring to specific platforms (like Netflix).

Grammar pattern

subscription + to (something)

Memory hint

Think of 'sub' + 'script' as signing up on a script for a show.

Collocations

  • annual
  • monthly
  • yearly
  • buy
  • pay
  • purchase
  • fee
  • price
  • rate
  • subscription for
  • subscription to
  • a month’s, year’s, etc. subscription

Synonyms

  • membership
  • enrollment
  • registration
  • contract
  • plan

Antonyms

  • cancellation
  • discontinuation

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'subscription' with 'subscription fee'; they are not interchangeable.
  • Using 'subscription' in a plural form when referring to one service.
  • Mistaking the word for 'subscript' which relates to writing.