Collect vs. Gather

When we say we 'collect' items, it often implies that the items are obtained or brought together from separate or distinct places. The act of collecting suggests that the items are brought together from various sources, locations, or origins. On the other hand, 'gather' typically suggests bringing things together that are already in close proximity or within a relatively short distance from each other but are spread or scattered around. For example:

'Collect' generally implies the act of systematically assembling items or information over a period of time, often with a specific purpose or order in mind. 'Collect' can also imply the act of obtaining or acquiring items or information on a regular or ongoing basis. 'Gather', however, is typically concerned with bringing things together or assembling them in a specific place or location, without focusing on a specific order or system. Here are some examples:

'Collect' is always transitive and takes a noun phrase as its object. 'Gather', however, can be transitive or intransitive. In its transitive use, it also takes a noun phrase as object. When used as an intransitive verb, its subject can only be people and not things. Take a look at the examples below: