Auxiliary: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is commonly used in technical or formal contexts to describe something that provides additional help or support.

• The auxiliary engine kicked in when the main engine failed.
• We installed an auxiliary battery for backup power.

This term is a more informal way to talk about auxiliary verbs, often used in educational settings to teach grammar.

• In 'He has finished his homework,' 'has' is a helping verb.
• Helping verbs assist in forming different tenses.

This term is used in grammar to describe a specific type of auxiliary verb that expresses necessity, possibility, permission, or ability.

• 'Can,' 'will,' 'must,' and 'should' are examples of modal verbs.
• In 'You must go now,' 'must' is a modal verb.

This term is used in grammar to describe verbs that are used together with a main verb to express tense, mood, or voice.

• In the sentence 'She is running,' 'is' is an auxiliary verb.
• Auxiliary verbs include 'be,' 'have,' and 'do.'

This term is often used in a formal or technical context to refer to something or someone that provides additional help or support.

• The hospital relied on auxiliary staff during the emergency
• The auxiliary engine provides extra power when needed

Used to describe someone who actively backs or promotes a person, cause, or organization. Often has a positive connotation.

• The senator has many supporters
• He is a strong supporter of renewable energy

Typically refers to a person whose job is to help someone in a more subordinate role, often in a professional setting.

• She is an executive assistant at the company
• He hired an assistant to manage his schedule

A general term used to describe help or assistance given to accomplish a task or resolve a problem. Common in both formal and informal situations.

• The first aid kit was used during the camping trip
• Financial aid is available for students who qualify

Used when referring to something that provides additional support or help, in formal or technical contexts.

• The hospital relies on auxiliary staff during peak hours
• The ship has an auxiliary engine for emergencies

Commonly used in everyday language to describe a substitute or fallback option when the primary one fails, often in technology or planning.

• Always keep a backup of your files
• We have a backup plan in case it rains

Used to indicate something of lesser importance or rank, often in contrast to a primary element.

• His secondary interest is painting, but his primary passion is music
• Secondary education typically follows primary education

Informal and widely used when referring to something additional or more than what is usual or necessary, often implying abundance.

• Can I have some extra cheese on my pizza? We need extra chairs for the guests