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Aid Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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aid

[eÉĒd ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

emergency

Aid is help, such as medical supplies or food, that is given to a country or organization that needs it. It can also refer to financial or material assistance given to those in need.

Synonyms

assistance, relief, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
aid

Typically used in formal situations, especially involving charities, organizations, or international help.

  • The country received aid from the United Nations
  • The Red Cross is organizing aid for the victims of the earthquake
assistance

Frequently used in formal or semi-formal contexts where help or support is needed for tasks, services, or processes.

  • We are here to provide assistance to our customers
  • The manager requested assistance with the report
support

Can be used in both formal and informal contexts to describe help, encouragement, or backing, often over a prolonged period.

  • Her friends offered her emotional support
  • The company provides financial support to various local charities
relief

Usually used when referring to the alleviation of pain, distress, or difficult situations. It often has a more emotional or urgent connotation.

  • The medicine provided relief from her headache
  • The relief team arrived shortly after the hurricane

Examples of usage

  • The Red Cross provides aid to disaster-stricken areas.
  • The government pledged to send aid to the hurricane victims.
Context #2 | Verb

help

To aid means to provide assistance or support to someone or something in need. It can involve giving help, support, or resources to achieve a particular goal.

Synonyms

assist, help, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
aid

This word is often used in more formal or official contexts, especially when referring to financial or material assistance provided during emergencies or to developing countries.

  • The government provided aid to the flood victims.
  • International organizations often give aid to countries in need.
assist

Typically used in formal contexts, 'assist' suggests helping someone to do something, particularly in more technical or specialized activities.

  • The technician will assist you with setting up the software.
  • She assisted the elderly lady across the street.
support

Often implies providing emotional, financial, or other backing over a longer period. Frequently used in contexts related to ongoing aid or encouragement.

  • He supported his friend during a difficult time.
  • They need financial support to continue their studies.
help

The most general and versatile of the synonyms. It can be used in almost any situation where someone is being assisted, from everyday tasks to more serious contexts.

  • Can you help me with my homework?
  • They are helping the charity to raise funds.

Examples of usage

  • The firefighters aided in rescuing the trapped victims.
  • She aided her friend in completing the project on time.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'aid'

The word 'aid' originated in the 15th century from the Old French word 'aide', which means 'help'. It has been used in English to refer to assistance or support provided to those in need, especially during emergencies or crises.

See also: aiding, aids, unaided.

Word Frequency Rank

At #886 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.