engage in
To do something or be part of something, usually on purpose.
Meanings
To take part in or occupy oneself with a particular activity.
"Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular activities throughout the school year."
"We must engage in a serious discussion about the future of our planet."
— Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary-General speech, 2014
To begin or enter into a discussion, negotiation, or dialogue with someone.
"The government refused to engage in talks with the opposition party."
"We are prepared to engage in direct diplomacy with Tehran."
— Barack Obama, campaign speech, 2008
To participate in combat or conflict with an enemy.
"The troops were ordered not to engage in hostile action unless fired upon."
Slightly formal; common in academic, professional, and journalistic writing. Often followed by abstract nouns: 'engage in conversation,' 'engage in debate.' Rarely used in casual speech, where 'take part in' or 'do' is preferred.
Commonly used with
Forms
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