Assistance Meaning and Definition
Assistance
Pronunciation
/əˈsɪstəns/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
The act of helping or supporting someone or something; aid or support given to help someone or something succeed or solve a problem.
Examples
- She received financial assistance from her family to pursue her education.
- The team received technical assistance from experts to improve their performance.
Synonyms
- Aid
- Help
- Support
Antonyms
- Hindrance
- Obstruction
Additional Information
Assistance can take many forms, including financial, emotional, physical, or technical support. It is often provided by individuals, organizations, or governments to help individuals or communities overcome challenges or achieve their goals. Assistance can be temporary or long-term, and it can be formal or informal.
Assistance is often provided in times of need, such as during natural disasters, economic downturns, or personal crises. It can also be provided as part of a broader strategy to promote social welfare, economic development, or human rights. In many cases, assistance is provided through non-governmental organizations (NGOs), charities, or community groups.
The effectiveness of assistance can depend on various factors, including the nature of the need, the type and quality of support provided, and the recipient’s ability to access and utilize the assistance. It is also important to consider the potential risks and unintended consequences of assistance, such as creating dependency or disrupting local markets.
Assistance can be formal or informal. Formal assistance typically involves government agencies, NGOs, or other organizations that provide support through official channels. Informal assistance, on the other hand, can come from individuals, families, or community groups.
Overall, assistance is an important aspect of social support and can play a critical role in promoting human well-being and social justice.
Etymology
The word “assistance” comes from the Latin “assistere,” meaning “to stand by” or “to support.”
Usage Notes
Assistance can be used in a variety of contexts, including formal and informal settings. It is often used in official documents, such as government reports or policy briefs, but it can also be used in everyday conversation. When using the word “assistance,” it is essential to consider the context and ensure that it is clear what type of support is being referred to.
Cultural References
Assistance has been referenced in various cultural contexts, including literature, music, and film. For example, the concept of assistance is a central theme in the novel “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee, which explores issues of racial injustice and social inequality.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “A helping hand”
- “A supportive ear”
Related Words or Phrases
- Support
- Aid
- Help
- Assist
Collocations
- Technical assistance
- Financial assistance
- Emotional assistance
Frequency of Use
Assistance is a commonly used word in everyday conversation, as well as in formal and professional contexts. It is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of settings to describe different types of support or aid.
Common Misspellings
- Assistance ( incorrect use of single ‘s’)
- Asistance (missing ‘s’)
- Assitance (missing ‘n’)