Assistance Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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assistance

[əˈsɪst(ə)ns ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in times of need

the action of helping someone with a task or problem

Synonyms

aid, guidance, help, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
assistance	Similar to 'assistance' but can also be used in more personal contexts when someone provides help in a task. Thank you for your assistance with this project She sought his assistance in fixing the computer
help	A general term suitable for everyday situations, informal requests, and common scenarios. I need help moving this table Can you help me with my homework?
support	Use when describing ongoing assistance, often emotional or financial, particularly in long-term situations. The charity provides support for homeless individuals She was grateful for her friends' support during tough times
aid	Often used when talking about help in emergencies, international or humanitarian contexts. The country received international aid after the earthquake Medical aid was provided to the victims of the accident
guidance	Use when someone needs advice or direction, often in educational, career, or personal development scenarios. She offered guidance to the new employees The student sought guidance from the counselor

Examples of usage

Thank you for your assistance with the project.
She provided valuable assistance during the crisis.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

formal setting

official support or advice provided by an organization or government

Synonyms

aid, backing, help, support.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
assistance	Used in formal or professional settings. Often implies a specific task or duty that needs completion. The project team needed additional assistance to meet the deadline. We appreciate your assistance in organizing the event.
support	Used to describe a broad range of assistance, whether emotional, physical, or financial. Suitable for both formal and informal situations. The community showed their support during the difficult times. She provided emotional support to her friend.
aid	Commonly used in the context of providing relief or resources, especially in humanitarian or emergency situations. The charity provided aid to the victims of the earthquake. International aid was crucial during the crisis.
help	A versatile and general term suitable for both everyday and informal situations. It can refer to any form of support. Could you help me carry these boxes? He asked for help with his homework.
backing	Typically refers to financial or institutional support, often used in business or political contexts. The startup received backing from several major investors. She has the backing of the entire board of directors.

Examples of usage

The embassy offered financial assistance to the citizens.
We are seeking assistance from the local authorities.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

medical field

the help or care provided by medical professionals

Synonyms

aid, care, help, treatment.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
assistance	Used in formal situations, often involving official or organized help. The government provided financial assistance to the flood victims. They offer assistance to small businesses looking to expand.
care	Often used in contexts related to health, well-being, or emotional support. She received excellent care at the hospital. He needs special care due to his medical condition.
treatment	Primarily used in medical contexts, but can also refer to the way someone is dealt with or managed. The patient received treatment for his injuries. She was unhappy with the treatment she received at the store.
aid	Used in the context of providing help, typically in situations involving emergencies, disasters, or international support. International aid was crucial after the earthquake. The charity works towards providing medical aid in war-torn regions.
help	Used in everyday situations; the most general term for providing support or assistance. Can you help me with my homework? She asked for help when her car broke down.

Examples of usage

He needed immediate medical assistance after the accident.
The paramedics arrived to provide assistance.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Studies show that receiving assistance can boost a person's confidence and feelings of belonging.
Helpers often experience a 'helper's high', a sense of joy from providing support to others.

United Nations

The UN established various assistance programs to help countries in need, such as disaster relief and economic development.
International assistance aims to promote peace, eliminate poverty, and ensure access to education and healthcare.

Technology

In the tech world, 'assistance' has evolved to include virtual assistants, like Siri or Alexa, helping users with everyday tasks.
Customer support services often use online chat assistance to solve problems and improve consumer experiences.

Education

In schools, assistance takes many forms, such as tutoring, where peers help each other understand subjects better.
Special education often provides additional assistance to ensure all students' needs are fully addressed.

Origin of 'assistance'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'assistere', meaning 'to stand by' or 'to help'.
Originally, it referred to a physical presence of someone who offers help, highlighting the importance of companionship in assistance.

The word 'assistance' originated from the Latin word 'assistentia', which means support or help. Over time, it evolved to its current form in the English language. The concept of assistance has been integral to human societies throughout history, as people have always relied on each other for help and support in various situations.

See also: assist, assister, assisting, unassisted.

Word Frequency Rank

At #904 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.

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901 serious
902 increasing
903 ready
904 assistance
905 commercial
906 maximum
907 events
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