Service: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'service' when referring to a system or organization providing something valuable to the public or to the act of serving customers in a business setting.

• The restaurant offers excellent service.
• The city provides garbage collection services.

Use 'assistance' when referring to help in a formal or professional context, often implying support with tasks or activities.

• She asked for assistance with her paperwork.
• We provide financial assistance to students in need.

Use 'aid' when referring to help or resources given, especially in a formal or structured manner, often in emergency situations or international contexts.

• The country will receive international aid after the earthquake.
• Medical aid was sent to the disaster-stricken area.

Use 'help' in everyday situations to describe giving or receiving support, often informally.

• Can you help me carry these bags?
• He needs help with his homework.

Use 'support' when referring to emotional, financial, or practical help, often implying a long-term or ongoing relationship.

• He received emotional support from his family.
• The project depends on community support.

When used a second time, it specifically refers to military service or time spent in the armed forces, highlighting duties, duration, or experience in the military context.

• He completed his service in the navy two years ago.
• Her service in the army taught her valuable skills.

Refers specifically to a country's combined military organizations, and it is commonly used in formal and official language when discussing national defense or military structure.

• The president thanked the armed forces for their dedication and bravery.
• During the national holiday, the armed forces conducted a parade.

Another term for a nation's combined military units, often used interchangeably with 'armed forces,' but can also be more specific when referring to active, combat-ready units.

• The military forces were deployed to stabilize the region.
• After months of training, the recruits joined the military forces.

Refers to a group of civilians trained as soldiers but not part of the regular army. Often used when talking about smaller groups that provide supplemental defense or in historical contexts. Might carry a negative connotation if referred to in the context of unregulated or unofficial groups.

• The local militia was called upon during the emergency.
• Historically, the militia played a key role in the country's fight for independence.

Use this word when talking about regular maintenance tasks to keep something running smoothly. Often used for cars, machinery, and appliances.

• I need to service my car before the long trip.
• The technician will service the air conditioner next week.

This word is best used when talking about keeping something in good condition over an extended period. Unlike 'service,' it implies regular attention and care rather than a one-time task.

• It's important to maintain your garden to keep it looking beautiful.
• She spends a lot of time maintaining her health through diet and exercise.

Similar to 'fix,' but often used for more formal or technical situations. It typically involves more significant or complex fixes.

• The mechanic will repair the engine.
• The plumber came to repair the leaking faucet.

Use this word when talking about correcting a specific problem or making something work again. It's usually a one-time action.

• Can you fix the broken chair?
• He managed to fix the internet connection in just a few minutes.