cooperation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cooperation Word Meanings
- working together towards a common goal
- joint effort to achieve something
- collaborative interaction between individuals or groups
cooperation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cooperation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/kəʊˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/
US
/koʊˌɑːpəˈreɪʃən/
cooperation Word Etymology
co- = together + operare = to work. Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a group of people all pulling together on a rope, symbolizing their combined efforts to achieve a mutual objective.
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
Cooperation means people working together toward a shared goal, often through mutual aid, coordination, and compromise. It can describe a single team or an international effort where different groups align resources and responsibilities. In everyday use, cooperation emphasizes the process of working jointly rather than the outcome; collaboration is similar but often stresses joint creation. People expect cooperation to be voluntary and constructive, and a lack of cooperation signals conflict or obstacles. Common collocations include cooperation with someone, show cooperation, international cooperation, and require cooperation from partners. The word carries a positive, mission oriented tone and is widely used in business, diplomacy, and community projects.
Usage Reminders
- Use cooperation as a noun. Avoid using cooperate (verb) as a noun. Common collocations: cooperation with, cooperation between, international cooperation. Compare with collaboration for joint creation. Watch the plural form rarely used as 'cooperations'. Pronounce koʊˌɒpəˈreɪʃən.
Common Misconceptions
- Cooperation = collaboration; they are interchangeable.
- It always implies formal agreements.
- It's only used in business or diplomacy contexts.
- Confusing with cooperative as an adjective or noun form.
- Forces a sense of obligation rather than voluntary effort.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, cooperation often carries a sense of practical coordination and mutual support within a group, while collaboration emphasizes joint creation and new outcomes. Learners tend to confuse the two, using them interchangeably in business or academic contexts, which can blur whether people are merely coordinating or actively co-creating.
Learning Tips
- Practice the noun form and its common collocations.
- Compare with cooperate (verb) and cooperate with someone.
- Note the difference between cooperation and collaboration.
- Listen for context: formal vs informal.
- Pay attention to pronunciation: /ˌkoʊ.əˈreɪ.ʃən/.
- Use it with modifiers like 'spirit of' or 'international'.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'cooperation'?
A.Working independently
B.Working together
C.Working competitively
D.Working lazily
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'cooperation' correctly?
A.The team showed great cooperation by arguing all the time.
B.The lack of cooperation between the siblings improved their relationship.
C.The cooperation between the two companies led to a successful partnership.
D.The teacher praised the students for their cooperation by working alone.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'cooperation'?
A.Isolation
B.Competition
C.Collaboration
D.Disagreement
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'cooperation'?
A.Unity
B.Rivalry
C.Support
D.Harmony
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where people demonstrate working together effectively?
A.A situation where everyone works alone and does not communicate.
B.A group project where each member contributes equally.
C.A competition where everyone tries to outdo each other.
D.A scenario where people refuse to help each other.
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App