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assess

v.
US //əˈsɛs// UK //ɐsˈɛs// as·sess
  1. 1 to evaluate or judge (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Academic

    to carefully judge the quality, importance, or value of something.

    to evaluate or estimate the nature, quality, or ability of someone or something. Transitive — requires a direct object.

    Example

    The teacher needs to assess the students' progress before the final exam.

    Example

    The committee spent several weeks trying to assess the long-term environmental impact of the proposed hydroelectric dam project.

    Usage

    Often used in academic and professional contexts when a formal judgment is required.
  2. 2 to calculate value or tax (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Technical Law

    to calculate the amount of tax or money that someone must pay.

    to estimate the value of property for taxation purposes or to calculate the amount of a tax or fine.

    Example

    The city will assess the value of the house to decide the property tax.

    Example

    The local authorities will assess the damage to the infrastructure before determining the total cost of the repairs.

    Usage

    Commonly used in legal or financial contexts involving property and government revenue.
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  1. 3 to impose a fine (v.)
    C1 Advanced Formal Law

    to officially make someone pay a fine or a penalty.

    to impose a fine, tax, or other financial charge on a person or entity.

    Example

    The court decided to assess a heavy fine against the company for polluting the river.

    Example

    The regulatory body has the power to assess penalties against any firm found to be in breach of safety protocols.
Origin

From Middle English assessen, from Old French assesser, from Medieval Latin assessare, originally the frequentative of Latin assessus, past participle of assidēre, from ad (“to, towards, at”) + sedeō (“sit; settle down”). Cognate with Spanish asentar (“to settle”).

Word family

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