What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
contribute
Example
I want to contribute to the charity event by volunteering my time. [contribute: verb]
Example
Your ideas will contribute greatly to the success of the project. [contribute: verb]
Example
The new equipment will contribute to the efficiency of the production process. [contribute: verb]
donate
Example
I want to donate some money to the local food bank. [donate: verb]
Example
She decided to donate her kidney to save her sister's life. [donate: verb]
Example
The company donated laptops to the school to support remote learning. [donated: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Donate is more commonly used than contribute in the context of charity or medical donation. However, contribute is more versatile and can be used in various contexts beyond charity or medical donation.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between contribute and donate?
Donate is often associated with a formal and serious tone, while contribute can be used in both formal and informal contexts, allowing it to be used in a wider range of situations.