Definition

1. Verb:

   • To give help or support to someone; to aid: The core meaning of "assist" is to provide help, making a task easier or possible for another person.
   • To be present at an event; to attend: A more formal, less common meaning referring to being in attendance.

2. Noun:

   • An act of helping, especially one that contributes to a successful outcome: In general use, an "assist" is a helpful action.
   • A pass or action in sports that enables a teammate to score: In sports like basketball, soccer, or hockey, this is a specific statistical credit for contributing directly to a score.

Usage Examples

• Verb:

  • Can you assist me with this heavy box? (You are asking for help to carry it.)
  • The nurse assisted the doctor during the operation. (The nurse provided supportive help.)
  • She assisted in organizing the community event. (She helped with the organizational work.)

• Noun:

  • Thank you for your assist with the project; it was crucial. (Your help was vital.)
  • The point guard had 15 points and 10 assists in the game. (He made 10 passes that led directly to baskets.)

Advanced Usage

• "to assist in/with (something)": to help with a particular task or activity.

  • He assisted with the data analysis.
  • Volunteers assisted in cleaning up the park.

• "to assist (someone) in doing (something)": a formal structure for helping someone perform an action.

  • The tutor assisted the student in preparing for the exam.

• "to assist at": a formal term meaning to be present and help at an event, often in official or ceremonial contexts.

  • Several diplomats assisted at the signing ceremony.

Variants and Related Words

• Assistant (n): A person who helps or provides support, often in a subordinate role.
  • She works as a teaching assistant.
• Assistance (n): The general act of helping or the help provided.
  • The company offers technical assistance.
• Assistive (adj): Designed to provide aid or assistance.
  • Assistive technology helps people with disabilities.

Synonyms

• Help: The most general synonym.
• Aid: Slightly more formal, often used in contexts of relief or support.
• Support: Can imply providing backing or reinforcement.
• Serve: To work for or be of use to someone (as in the reference example: "May I serve you?").

Related Phrasal Verbs

(Note: "Assist" is not commonly used in phrasal verb constructions. The help is typically expressed with prepositions like "in" or "with.")

Related Idioms

• To lend a hand: This is a common idiom meaning to help, which is synonymous with "to assist."
  • Could you lend a hand with these groceries?

Noun

1. (sports) the act of enabling another player to make a good play
2. the activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose
   • he gave me an assist with the housework
   • could not walk without assistance
   • rescue party went to their aid
   • offered his help in unloading

Verb

1. work for or be a servant to
   • May I serve you?
   • She attends the old lady in the wheelchair
   • Can you wait on our table, please?
   • Is a salesperson assisting you?
   • The minister served the King for many years
2. act as an assistant in a subordinate or supportive function
3. give help or assistance; be of service
   • Everyone helped out during the earthquake
   • Can you help me carry this table?
   • She never helps around the house