contribution to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contribution to" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is typically used to indicate that something has made an impact or has helped to contribute to a certain goal. For example, you could say "Her hard work made a significant contribution to the success of the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Their contribution to GDP?

Independent

Greece's contribution to modern civilisation?

The Economist

Contribution to others.

The New York Times - Health

Her contribution to "E.T".

The New Yorker

Her contribution to music was amazing.

Independent

And Sri Lanka's contribution to global outsourcing?

The New York Times

* Outstanding contribution to music - Robbie Williams.

Independent

"We appreciate their contribution to our society.

The New York Times

It praised British Muslims' contribution to society.

The Economist

My contribution to Chinese literature is finished.

The New York Times - Arts

Smith's contribution to this coaching stew?

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "contribution to", ensure the noun following "to" clearly indicates the area or entity being influenced. For instance, "contribution to the project" is more specific than a general "contribution".

Common error

Avoid using "contribution to" when referring to something that entirely constitutes the result. "The entire outcome" isn't a "contribution to" the outcome; it is the outcome.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contribution to" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It typically connects a noun (representing the contribution) to another noun (representing the entity or area being affected). Ludwig's examples demonstrate its role in indicating the source or means by which an effect is produced.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

46%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "contribution to" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate the act of giving or providing something that aids or influences a particular outcome. According to Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently appears in various contexts, primarily in news and media, science, and encyclopedias. While it is widely accepted, it's essential to use it accurately, ensuring that it reflects a true act of contributing rather than constituting the whole. When aiming for clarity, consider alternative phrases like "input towards" or "impact on". Ultimately, mastering the nuances of "contribution to" enhances the precision and effectiveness of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

input towards

This alternative suggests a more direct and specific offering or addition, often in a collaborative setting.

assistance for

Focuses on providing help or support, highlighting the act of aiding someone or something.

aid in

Similar to assistance, but implies a more supportive or facilitating role in achieving a goal.

part in

Emphasizes involvement or participation in a larger activity or endeavor.

support of

Highlights the act of giving backing or encouragement to a cause, person, or idea.

role in

Focuses on the function or position someone or something plays in a particular context or event.

impact on

Shifts the focus to the effect or influence something has on something else, rather than the act of giving.

benefit for

Highlights the advantages or positive outcomes resulting from an action or contribution.

influence on

Similar to impact, emphasizing the power to affect or shape something.

investment in

Suggests allocating resources or effort with the expectation of future returns or benefits.

FAQs

How to use "contribution to" in a sentence?

You can use "contribution to" to indicate something that has made an impact or has helped a cause. For example, "Her hard work made a significant "contribution to" the success of the project.".

What can I say instead of "contribution to"?

You can use alternatives like "input towards", "assistance for", or "impact on" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "contribution to" or "contributions to"?

"Contribution to" refers to a singular contribution, while "contributions to" refers to multiple contributions. The choice depends on whether you're discussing one specific contribution or multiple ones.

What's the difference between "contribution to" and "contributing to"?

"Contribution to" is a noun phrase referring to the act or result of contributing, while "contributing to" is a verb phrase indicating the action of making a contribution. For example, "His "contribution to" the team was valuable" vs. "He is "contributing to" the team's success".