Assist

Definition

Assist is a verb that means to help or support someone in doing something. As a noun, it refers to an act of assistance or support, and in sports, it denotes a contribution to a scoring play by passing or setting up a teammate.

Parts of Speech

• Verb
• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsɪst/
• Respelling: uh-SIST

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /əˈsɪst/
• Respelling: uh-SIST

Etymology

The word "assist" originates from the Latin term "assistere," meaning "to stand by" or "to aid." It entered Middle English through Old French, adopting the meaning of helping or providing support.

Derivatives

• Assistance (noun)
• Assistant (noun)
• Assisted (verb, past tense)
• Assisting (verb, present participle)
• Assistive (adjective)

Synonyms

• Help
• Support
• Aid

Antonyms

• Hinder
• Obstruct
• Impede

Usage

The word "assist" is frequently used to describe actions that help or facilitate a task or objective. For example, "She asked her colleague to assist with the project," or "The player had three assists in the game."

Related Terms

• Support: To provide help or encouragement.
• Aid: Assistance or support, often in times of need.
• Facilitate: To make an action or process easier.

Detailed Definitions

Verb

• To help or support someone in doing something: Describes providing aid or encouragement to accomplish a task.
  • Example: "He was happy to assist his friend with moving."

Noun

• An act of helping or providing support: Refers to any instance of aid or assistance.
  • Example: "She offered her assist to the team."
• In sports, a contribution to a scoring play: Indicates a play that directly contributes to a score by setting up a teammate.
  • Example: "The player led the league with the most assists this season."