Introduction: Is “Contact” Really a Verb?
Many English learners feel unsure about using “contact” as a verb. You may have heard someone say, “Please contact me,” and wondered: Is that correct? Shouldn’t it be “make contact with me”?
The short answer is: Yes, you can use “contact” as a verb. It is grammatically correct, widely accepted, and commonly used in both formal and informal English. However, there are certain situations where it sounds more natural than others.
In this article, we will explain how to use “contact” correctly, when it is appropriate, and how it compares to similar expressions.
Is “Contact” a Verb or a Noun?
“Contact” can be both a noun and a verb.
1. “Contact” as a Noun
As a noun, “contact” refers to communication or connection between people.
I have a contact at the company.
There has been no contact between the two groups.
2. “Contact” as a Verb
As a verb, “contact” means to communicate with someone, usually by phone, email, message, or letter.
Please contact me if you have any questions.
She contacted the manager yesterday.
Using “contact” as a verb is completely standard in modern English.
Is It Formal or Informal?
“Contact” as a verb is considered neutral to formal. It is very common in business English, academic writing, and professional communication.
For example, you will often see:
If you need assistance, please contact our support team.
Applicants will be contacted within five business days.
In very casual speech, people sometimes prefer alternatives like “call,” “text,” or “get in touch with.”
“Contact” vs. “Get in Touch” vs. “Call”
Here is a comparison of common expressions:
| Expression | Meaning | Formality Level | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Contact | Communicate by any method | Neutral/Formal | Please contact us for more information. |
| Get in touch (with) | Make communication | Neutral | I’ll get in touch with you tomorrow. |
| Call | Telephone someone | Neutral/Informal | I’ll call you tonight. |
| Reach out (to) | Try to communicate (often for help or support) | Neutral/Professional | Feel free to reach out if you need help. |
Important: “Contact” does not specify how you communicate. It could mean calling, emailing, messaging, or writing.
Common Sentence Patterns with “Contact”
1. Contact + Person
I will contact you next week.
She contacted her professor about the assignment.
2. Be Contacted (Passive Voice)
You will be contacted soon.
All successful candidates will be contacted by email.
3. Contact + Object (Company/Organization)
Please contact customer service.
He contacted the bank to report the problem.
4. Contact + Someone + About + Topic
I’m contacting you about your recent order.
They contacted us about the meeting schedule.
Is “Contact” as a Verb Ever Wrong?
Grammatically, it is not wrong. However, some people—especially traditional writers—used to prefer “make contact with” instead of “contact.”
For example:
Older style: We will make contact with you.
Modern style: We will contact you.
Today, the shorter verb form is widely accepted and preferred because it is clearer and more direct.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Adding an Unnecessary Preposition
Do not say:
❌ I will contact with you.
Correct form:
✅ I will contact you.
“Contact” does not need “with.”
2. Confusing “Contact” with Physical Touch
“Contact” can also mean physical touch in scientific or medical contexts:
The chemical should not come into contact with skin.
But in everyday communication, it usually means communication.
Why Using “Contact” Is Helpful
Using “contact” as a verb makes your English:
- More professional
- Clear and direct
- Shorter and more efficient
Compare these two sentences:
Please make contact with our office if you need help.
Please contact our office if you need help.
The second sentence is simpler and more natural in modern English.
Quick Summary: Key Takeaways
- ✅ “Contact” is both a noun and a verb.
- ✅ Using “contact” as a verb is correct and widely accepted.
- ✅ It is common in professional and business English.
- ✅ Do not say “contact with someone.” Say “contact someone.”
- ✅ It does not specify how communication happens.
Conclusion
Yes, you can absolutely use “contact” as a verb. It is grammatically correct, modern, and commonly used in professional communication. While some older forms like “make contact with” still exist, the simpler verb form is preferred in most situations today.
If you want your English to sound clear and professional, feel confident saying and writing sentences like “Please contact me” or “We will contact you soon.”
Mastering small points like this helps you communicate more naturally and effectively in English.