Is amalgamate formal or informal?

It is formal. People often use it in writing, especially about businesses, schools, or groups.

What is the difference between amalgamate and merge?

Merge is more common and everyday. Amalgamate sounds more formal and is often used in official or academic contexts.

Can I use amalgamate in speaking?

Yes, but it may sound formal or careful. In casual speech, people usually say join, mix, or merge.

← Dictionary

amalgamate

/əˈmæl.ɡə.meɪt/

IELTSAcademic

verb

To combine two or more things into one group or system. It often means making them work together as a single unit.

The two departments will amalgamate next year.
Small schools may amalgamate to save money.
The companies amalgamated into one business.

Adinary Nuance

Amalgamate is more formal than mix or join. It suggests a planned joining of parts into one larger whole, often in business, politics, or organisations. Writers choose it when the new unit matters, not just the act of combining.

In other languages

Vietnamese: hợp nhất
Spanish: fusionar
Chinese: 合并
Japanese: 合併する
Korean: 합병하다

Etymology

Amalgamate came into English in the 17th century from Latin-based scientific language. It is related to amalgam, a word for a mixture, especially of metals.

Common phrases

amalgamate two companiesamalgamate into oneamalgamate departmentsamalgamate the schools

Synonyms

combine merge unite blend

Related words

amalgamation mixture integration fusion

Frequently asked questions

Is amalgamate formal or informal?: It is formal. People often use it in writing, especially about businesses, schools, or groups.
What is the difference between amalgamate and merge?: Merge is more common and everyday. Amalgamate sounds more formal and is often used in official or academic contexts.
Can I use amalgamate in speaking?: Yes, but it may sound formal or careful. In casual speech, people usually say join, mix, or merge.