disseminate

/dɪˈsɛmɪneɪt/
spread widely

The organization uses social media to disseminate information about public health.

The organization spreads information about public health through social media platforms.


formal

to spread or disperse something, especially information, widely

Governments must disseminate accurate data to build public trust.

Governments need to share reliable information to gain public confidence.

The study was disseminated in top academic journals.

The research findings were published and shared in prestigious academic journals.

Often used in academic, scientific, or official contexts to describe the intentional sharing of information.

technical

to spread seeds or plants over an area

Farmers disseminate seeds by hand to ensure even distribution.

Farmers scatter seeds manually to achieve uniform planting.

Primarily used in agricultural or botanical contexts.

Pro Tip

Avoid overusing 'disseminate'

While 'disseminate' is precise, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Use simpler verbs like 'share' or 'spread' when the context is informal.

Gold Rule

Use for intentional sharing

Reserve 'disseminate' for cases where information is actively and deliberately spread, often by an authoritative source (e.g., governments, institutions). Avoid using it for passive or accidental spreading.

Word Origin

From Latin *disseminare* (to spread seeds), combining *dis-* (apart) + *seminare* (to sow), from *semen* (seed).

Usage Notes

Prefer 'disseminate' in formal or technical writing over casual alternatives like 'spread' or 'share'. It implies a deliberate, systematic, or authoritative act of spreading information.

Word Breakdown

dis-
apart, away
prefix
+
seminare
to sow
root
+
-ate
verb-forming suffix
suffix
English Dictionary