What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
engage
Example
I always try to engage my students in class discussions. [engage: verb]
Example
The speaker was able to engage the audience with her captivating presentation. [engage: verb]
Example
She is engaged in a new project that will take up most of her time. [engaged: adjective]
involve
Example
The project will involve several team members with different skill sets. [involve: verb]
Example
The event will involve a lot of planning and preparation. [involve: verb]
Example
The accident involved two cars and a pedestrian. [involved: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Involve is more commonly used than engage in everyday language. Involve is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while engage is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between engage and involve?
Both engage and involve can be used in formal and informal contexts, but engage may be more appropriate in professional or academic settings where active participation and attention are valued.