assistance

noun

as·​sis·​tance ə-ˈsi-stən(t)s 

: the act of helping or assisting someone or the help supplied : aid

financial and technical assistance

Can I be of any assistance? [=can I help you?]

Synonyms

• abetment
• aid
• assist
• backing
• boost
• hand
• help
• helping hand
• leg up
• lift
• support

Examples of assistance in a Sentence

Any assistance you can give me would be appreciated.

I'll be happy to provide you with whatever assistance you may need.

Recent Examples on the Web

By law, applications for HEAP assistance open each year in early November, and remain open until the funds run out. —Chris Sommerfeldt, New York Daily News, 23 Jan. 2025

That means not just Calais Campbell, Chubb and Phillips’ assistance in the Penn State product’s game but also the likes of Pro Bowl tackle Terron Armstead. —C. Isaiah Smalls Ii, Miami Herald, 23 Jan. 2025

During the Biden Administration, Congress passed enhanced financial assistance for those seeking coverage, which outgoing CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-Lasure credited for the record enrollment. —Alex Knapp, Forbes, 22 Jan. 2025

In the new promo for Chalamet’s upcoming hosting gig, the Complete Unknown actor seeks assistance for his first time leading the comedy-sketch series as both its host and musical guest. —Lexi Carson, The Hollywood Reporter, 22 Jan. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Middle English assistence, assistance, borrowed from Anglo-French, borrowed from Medieval Latin assistentia "presence, participation, guidance," going back to Late Latin, "aid," noun derivative of Latin assistent-, assistens, present participle of assistere "to take up a position near, stand by, stand by as a supporter or advocate" — more at assist entry 1

Note: In the case of both this word and assistant Modern English has chosen the French form with -a- in the suffix rather than Latin -e-.

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing assistance

• come to someone's assistance
• directory assistance
• go on public assistance
• of (any) assistance
• public assistance
• writ of assistance

Kids Definition

assistance

noun

as·​sis·​tance ə-ˈsis-tən(t)s 

: the act of assisting

also : the help given