coordinate
B2Formal to neutral
Definition
Meaning
To organize different elements so they work together effectively; to bring into proper order or relation.
In mathematics: a set of numbers that determine the position of a point; in fashion: matching items of clothing; in chemistry: a type of covalent bond where both electrons come from one atom.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Can function as verb, noun, and adjective with related but distinct meanings. The verb often implies hierarchical organization or synchronization.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
British English sometimes uses 'co-ordinate' with hyphen, though 'coordinate' is increasingly common. American English exclusively uses 'coordinate' without hyphen.
Connotations
Similar connotations in both varieties, though British usage may slightly more often imply formal bureaucratic organization.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English in business/management contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
coordinate somethingcoordinate with somebodycoordinate something with somethingcoordinate between A and BVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Coordinate one's efforts”
- “Coordinate hand and eye”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Project managers coordinate teams across different departments to meet deadlines.
Academic
The study examines how neurons coordinate to produce complex behaviors.
Everyday
We need to coordinate our schedules to find a time that works for everyone.
Technical
The GPS receiver uses satellite signals to calculate its precise coordinates.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- The charity will coordinate relief efforts with local authorities.
- We must co-ordinate our diaries to arrange the meeting.
American English
- She coordinates marketing campaigns across three time zones.
- The department will coordinate volunteer activities for the community event.
adverb
British English
- The teams worked coordinate to complete the project.
- The departments acted coordinate in their response.
American English
- The dancers moved coordinate across the stage.
- The systems function coordinate without interruption.
adjective
British English
- She wore a coordinate jacket and skirt for the interview.
- The coordinate geometry problem required plotting points on a grid.
American English
- The coordinate pieces of furniture created a cohesive look.
- Students learned about coordinate planes in math class.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The teacher helps us coordinate our group work.
- My shirt and trousers coordinate well.
- We need to coordinate our travel plans before booking flights.
- The x and y coordinates show the exact position on the map.
- The UN agency coordinates humanitarian aid in conflict zones.
- Effective managers coordinate resources across multiple projects simultaneously.
- The nervous system coordinates complex physiological responses to stress.
- Diplomats attempted to coordinate a multilateral response to the crisis.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CO-ORDINATOR who brings ORDER to a team - CO-ORDIN-ATE.
Conceptual Metaphor
ORCHESTRATION (bringing separate elements into harmonious action)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid translating as 'координировать' in every context - sometimes 'согласовывать', 'организовывать', or 'скоординировать' fits better depending on context.
- The noun 'coordinates' (математические координаты) is a false friend with 'координаты' in Russian which can mean 'contact details'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'coordinate' as a noun when 'coordinator' is needed (e.g., 'She is the coordinate of the project' ❌ vs 'She is the coordinator' ✅)
- Confusing 'coordinate' with 'cooperate' (working together vs organizing together).
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'coordinate' correctly as a verb?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Both are acceptable in British English, though 'coordinate' is becoming more common. American English exclusively uses 'coordinate' without hyphen.
'Coordinate' means to organize different elements to work together effectively. 'Cooperate' means to work together toward a common goal. You coordinate plans but cooperate with people.
Yes, primarily in mathematics (a set of numbers determining position) and fashion (matching items). For a person who coordinates, use 'coordinator'.
As verb: stress on second syllable (/kəʊˈɔːdɪneɪt/). As noun/adjective: stress shifts to first syllable (/ˈkəʊɔːdɪnət/) in careful speech, though in casual speech the verb pronunciation is often used for both.