collaboration - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
collaboration Word Meanings
- the act of working together with someone to achieve a common goal
- a joint effort in producing something
- cooperation between individuals or groups
collaboration Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
collaboration Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/
US
/kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/
collaboration Word Etymology
co- = together, labor = work; Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Imagine two hands coming together to lift a heavy load, symbolizing teamwork and shared effort in any project.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I place a sticky note on the board and pull my teammate closer. We shift the plan together, one adjusting here, the other nodding there. The room hums with effort as we keep turning rough ideas into a shared path. By the end, the result feels bigger than any one of us, born from working side by side.
Real Context
Collaboration is the act of working together with others toward a shared goal. It involves coordinating ideas, resources, and efforts across people or teams to produce something meaningful. The concept emphasizes joint ownership of outcomes rather than individual achievement, and it often unfolds across disciplines or organizations in projects, research, or community initiatives. The etymology from co- (together) and labor (work) reflects the idea of shared labor, and the image of two hands joining conveys teamwork, trust, and a collective commitment to success.
Usage Reminders
- - Collaboration emphasizes joint process and shared ownership
- - Distinguish collaboration from mere cooperation or teamwork
- - Be explicit about roles and responsibilities
- - Set clear goals and timelines
- - Use language that signals equal partnership (co-design, co-author)
Common Misconceptions
- Collaboration = mere help or assist without real joint planning
- Collaboration always means long meetings with no deliverables
- You can collaborate without clear goals or roles
- Collaboration is the same as teamwork in one department
- Cooperation and collaboration are interchangeable
Thinking Differences
In English, collaboration is often framed as a voluntary, ongoing process of joint work with shared ownership and responsibility. Learners often confuse collaboration with general cooperation or just working on a task together, missing the need for clear goals, roles, and mutual accountability.
Learning Tips
- Practice using collabo-related verbs: co-design, co-author, co-create
- Mentally contrast collaboration with cooperation and teamwork
- Describe a project as a collaboration with roles named
- Set explicit goals before starting a joint task
- Document decisions to maintain accountability
- Reflect on outcomes and lessons learned from the collaboration
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'collaboration'?
A.Working alone
B.Working angrily
C.Working slowly
D.Working together
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'collaboration' used correctly?
A.I prefer to work alone on this project.
B.Let's avoid collaboration and work individually.
C.I hate collaborating with others.
D.Collaboration is key to success in group projects.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym for 'collaboration'?
A.Partnership
B.Isolation
C.Rivalry
D.Independence
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'collaboration'?
A.Communication
B.Conflict
C.Assistance
D.Connection
Step 5: Mastery
How does 'collaboration' apply in a workplace setting?
A.It fosters teamwork and innovation.
B.It encourages individual competition.
C.It creates a hostile work environment.
D.It limits productivity and creativity.
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