B1noun 1K

Volunteer

UK //ˌvɒl.ənˈtɪə// US //ˌvɑl.ənˈtɪr// Pronunciation

Definition

A person who freely offers to take part in an activity or give help.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A person who offers to help or work for free.

Examples

• Many volunteers help at the local food bank every weekend.
• She became a volunteer at the animal shelter last summer.
• The organization is looking for volunteers to assist with events.
• As a volunteer, he felt fulfilled by helping others in the community.
• Volunteers are essential for the success of this charity event.

Usage notes

Used in contexts relating to charity, community service, or help. Not typically used in formal business contexts for paid positions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'volunteer' as someone who 'volunteers' their time, like a free helper.

Collocations

• volunteer work
• volunteer program
• volunteer opportunity

Synonyms

• helper
• donor
• contributor
• worker

Antonyms

• non-volunteer
• detractor

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'volunteer' with 'voluntary' which has a different meaning.
• Using 'volunteer' as a verb incorrectly instead of the noun form.