collaborative - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
collaborative Word Meanings
- working together with others
- involving cooperation
- characterized by joint effort
collaborative Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
collaborative Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəˈlæbəreɪtɪv/
US
/kəˈlæbəreɪtɪv/
collaborative Word Etymology
co- = together + labor = work; from Latin 'collaborare' meaning 'to work together'. Imagine people gathering around a table, working together on a project, each contributing their skills to achieve a common goal.
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 InputReal Context
Collaborative describes work that is done by several people together toward a common goal, rather than by individuals alone. It highlights joint planning, open communication, mutual respect, and shared responsibility. In schools, workplaces, and research settings, a collaborative mindset supports brainstorming, feedback loops, and the pooling of diverse skills to produce outcomes that are stronger than any solo effort. The phrase appears in contexts like collaborative project, collaborative learning, or a collaborative environment. Learners should note its nuance compared with cooperative or coordinated efforts, since collaborative stresses ongoing interaction and co-creation rather than merely helping one another. When you use it, emphasize process as well as outcome.
Usage Reminders
- Use as an adjective before a noun
- Pair with nouns like project, approach, or environment
- Convey emphasis on process and co-creation, not just helping
- Often followed by 'team', 'learning', or 'work'
- Be mindful of the nuance relative to cooperative or coordinated efforts
Common Misconceptions
- It means working alone
- It is the same as cooperative
- It can only describe projects
- It implies equal effort from everyone
- It is a noun
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short)
Learning Tips
- Pair it with a noun to describe an effort or environment (e. g., collaborative project).
- Practice contrasting sentences with cooperative to feel nuance.
- Use in formal or academic contexts to convey joint creation.
- Notice collocations like 'collaborative team' or 'collaborative learning'.
- Check whether all participants contribute to the idea, not just logistics.
- Read or listen for phrases that imply ongoing interaction, not one-off help.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does 'collaborative' mean?
A.Working alone
B.Working together
C.Working fast
D.Working slowly
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'collaborative' correctly?
A.He enjoys collaborative teamwork.
B.She prefers to work solo on projects.
C.They never communicate with each other.
D.She always takes credit for others' work.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'collaborative'?
A.Competitive
B.Joint
C.Independent
D.Selfish
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'collaborative'?
A.Solitary
B.Cooperative
C.Supportive
D.Interactive
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would being 'collaborative' be beneficial?
A.Isolating oneself from colleagues
B.Ignoring input from others
C.Solving a complex problem with a team
D.Taking credit for others' work
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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