collect

word

/kəˈɫɛkt/
kuh-LEKT
/kəˈlɛkt/
kuh-LEKT

Definition

To bring things together from different places, to get something from a place where it is waiting for you, or to keep similar objects as a hobby.

Usage & Nuances

Common patterns: 'collect money/data/information', 'collect someone from school/the airport', and 'collect stamps/art'. In American English, 'pick up' is often more common than 'collect' for people or packages in everyday speech. 'Collect' can also mean formally 'receive payment' or 'gather data'.

Example Sentences

I collect coins from different countries.

basic

The teacher will collect our homework tomorrow.

basic

He’s been collecting old vinyl records since college.

natural

Please collect your bag at the front desk.

basic

I need to leave early to collect my son from school.

natural

We’re trying to collect more customer feedback this month.

natural