engage
Translation
to engage, to attract, to hire, to interlock
Examples
The book failed to engage my interest.
The book failed to engage my interest.
We need to engage with our customers.
We need to engage with our customers.
They engaged a new architect for the project.
They engaged a new architect for the project.
The gears failed to engage.
The gears failed to engage.
Grammar Patterns
to engage ((sth.)) to attract or involve (sb.'s interest or attention) The story engages the reader.
to engage with ((sb./sth.)) to become involved with (sb./sth.) You should engage with local communities.
to engage ((sb.)) ((as sth.)) to employ (sb.) They engaged him as a consultant.
to engage in ((sth.)) to take part in (sth.) She engages in volunteer work.
Similar Words
Etymology
From Old French 'engagier', from 'en-' (in) + 'gage' (a pledge). It originally meant to bind by a pledge.
Memory Tips
Think of an 'engagement' ring, which is a pledge to get involved with someone. The verb has a similar sense of getting involved or connected.