Contribution Meaning

UK /kənˈtrɪbjuːʃən/
US /kənˈtrɪbjuːʃən/
Word Definition
contribution meaning

Contribution Definition & Usage

noun

The act of giving something (usually time, money, or effort) for a cause, project, or group effort.

Examples

  • "Her contribution to the charity event made a real difference in the community."
  • "He decided to make a financial contribution to the local school for their new library."
  • "Every team member made a significant contribution to the project's success."
  • "Without your contribution, the project wouldn’t have been completed on time."
  • "The artist’s work was a valuable contribution to the cultural landscape of the city."
noun

A share or part of a larger whole, often referring to an investment or share in a business.

Examples

  • "The company's contribution to the stock market was significant in the last quarter."
  • "She made a contribution to the startup by providing both capital and mentorship."
  • "His contributions to the company’s growth have been recognized in the annual report."
  • "The business model was successful due to the contributions of multiple investors."
  • "The contribution of a dedicated marketing team helped the product reach new markets."
noun

A meaningful or original addition to a body of knowledge, often seen in academic or scientific work.

Examples

  • "The scientist’s research made a significant contribution to the field of genetic engineering."
  • "Her contribution to the study of climate change was groundbreaking."
  • "The publication of his paper was a key contribution to the ongoing debate on sustainability."
  • "He is widely recognized for his contributions to the development of quantum physics."
  • "This book makes an important contribution to the history of modern philosophy."

Cultural Context

The word ‘contribution’ comes from the Latin 'contributio', meaning 'a bringing together'. It has been used in English since the 14th century, evolving in meaning to cover a wide range of contexts, including charity, teamwork, business, and intellectual work. It is often seen as a key element in cooperation, community, and progress.

The Great Contribution

Story

The Great Contribution

In a small town, there was a community project aiming to rebuild the old library that had been closed for years. The town’s residents had been waiting for this moment for decades, hoping for a new space to gather and share ideas. At the heart of this project was Sarah, a young architect who had recently moved to the town. She believed that the library could be more than just a place for books; it could be a community hub where people could connect, learn, and grow. As Sarah stood before the town council, she made her contribution clear. She had worked tirelessly on the plans, incorporating modern designs that respected the historical elements of the building. But it wasn’t just her design that mattered; she had also brought together a team of volunteers who helped with everything from fundraising to construction. Together, they raised money, cleared debris, and painted the walls. Sarah was not alone in her efforts. The local shopkeepers had contributed by donating supplies and offering discounts. Mrs. Lawrence, a retired teacher, spent hours tutoring young students on how to use the new computers. Mr. Perez, a local businessman, made a significant financial contribution to cover the costs of the new reading room. Each person’s contribution was different, but together, they brought the dream to life. On the grand opening day, the library was filled with laughter and excitement. The people of the town had made their contributions, big and small, and the results were evident. The library was no longer just a building; it was a symbol of their collective effort. Sarah smiled, knowing that every contribution had been necessary to make the dream a reality. It wasn’t just the physical structure that had been built, but the community spirit that would last for generations to come.

The Great Contribution