B2noun1K

Participation

UK /["/pɑːˌtɪsɪˈpeɪʃn/"]/US /["/pɑːrˌtɪsɪˈpeɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the act of taking part in an activity or event

In simple words: Being involved in something.

Examples

  • a show with lots of **audience participation**
  • A back injury prevented active participation in any sports for a while.
  • Teachers were asked to solicit student participation.
  • Those who declined participation were excused and sent back to the classroom.
  • We were very pleased with the high level of participation in the charity events.
  • the decline in voting and civic participation

Usage notes

Used when discussing being part of an activity or event. It’s appropriate in formal writings but also conversationally acceptable. Avoid in overly casual contexts.

Grammar pattern

participation + in/with + event/group

Memory hint

Think of 'participate' — you can 'part' in something together!

Collocations

  • full
  • broader
  • greater
  • degree
  • extent
  • level
  • encourage
  • facilitate
  • foster
  • increase
  • level
  • rate
  • participation in

Synonyms

  • involvement
  • engagement
  • contribution
  • attendance

Antonyms

  • absence
  • nonparticipation

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'participate' (verb) vs. 'participation' (noun)
  • Using 'participation' without a clear context or event specified
  • Misusing it when talking about passive attendance instead of active involvement