To actively take part in or involve oneself in an activity, discussion, or process.
To do something or be part of something, usually on purpose.
3 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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.
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Listen to native speakers using "engage in" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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