Solicit: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when actively and sometimes persistently asking for something, often in a business or legal context.

• The company was accused of soliciting donations illegally.
• He solicited her opinion on the matter.

Used when asking for something politely or formally.

• He requested more information about the terms of service.
• She requested a meeting with the manager.

Used when trying to find or achieve something, often requiring effort or investigation.

• They are seeking a solution to the problem.
• She is seeking new opportunities for career growth.

Used when asking someone to attend an event or join an activity in a friendly or formal manner.

• She invited all her friends to the party.
• The committee invited him to give a keynote speech.

Used when asking for a formal change or action, often involving a large number of people signing a document.

• Residents petitioned the city council to improve street lighting.
• They started a petition to change the school policy.

Typically used in professional or formal contexts to mean asking for or trying to obtain something, such as information, money, or help.

• The charity is looking to solicit donations from the local community.
• She decided to solicit feedback from her colleagues to improve her report.

Often used in formal or official settings to mean obtaining something, especially something that is difficult to get or requires effort and planning.

• The company was able to procure the necessary permits to continue construction.
• He tasked his assistant with procuring tickets for the concert.

Carries a negative connotation and is used to describe the act of asking for or trying to obtain sexual services, often in illegal or unethical circumstances.

• The police arrested him for attempting to solicit sex from an undercover officer.
• Reports indicated an increase in efforts to solicit sex online.