communicate
A2Pronunciation
UK
- /kəmjˈuːnɪkˌeɪt/
US
- /kəmˈjunəˌkeɪt/
Description
- share information
- express ideas and feelings
- make yourself understood
To communicate isn't just about talking—it's the whole process of sharing ideas, feelings, or information with others. Think of a flock of birds soaring through the sky; they communicate effortlessly using subtle shifts in their wings to stay together. Humans do this too, but we have more tools! We can communicate through spoken words, written letters, body language, and even art and music.
Sometimes communication is easy—like telling a friend you had a good day. Other times it's tricky—like explaining a complex idea or resolving an argument. A broken radio can't communicate, but a well-written email can travel across the world in seconds. The word comes from the Latin "communicare," meaning "to share." So next time you reach out to someone, remember you're participating in this fundamental human act of connection.
To communicate means to convey information, ideas, thoughts, feelings, or emotions through language, gestures, signals, writing, or other means. It is the process by which we create understanding between ourselves and others. For example: "The doctor communicated the test results to the patient," or "They struggled to communicate their needs."
Communication isn't always verbal. A simple smile can communicate happiness, while crossed arms might communicate defensiveness. Animals also communicate using sounds, scents, and body language to signal danger, attract mates, or establish territory.
The context of communication is important. The way you communicate with a close friend will be different from how you communicate with your boss. Effective communication requires clarity, active listening, and empathy—understanding the other person's perspective.
In technology, we talk about "communication networks" like the internet, which allow us to share information globally. But even before computers, people used systems of communication like smoke signals or carrier pigeons!
Whether it's a heartfelt conversation, a formal presentation, a subtle gesture, or a complex technological system—communication is at the heart of how we connect, collaborate, and build relationships in the world around us.
Examples
- 1
Everyday email
We usually communicate by email during the week.
- 2
Language barrier
At first, we didn't share a language, but we still managed to communicate.
- 3
Driver app
The app makes it easy for drivers to communicate with customers.
- 4
Team concerns
He struggled to communicate his concerns to the rest of the team.
- 5
School announcement
The school communicated that classes would start late because of the storm.
Pattern
communicate that + clause
formally give that information
- 6
Confidence
You don't have to speak loudly to communicate confidence.
- 7
Facial expression
Her face communicated exactly how disappointed she was.
- 8
Visual design
The new design communicates a sense of calm and simplicity.
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- communicateverb
Forms
- communicating-ing formverb
- communicatedpast tenseverb
- communicatesverb