# assistance

/əˈsɪstəns/ (US) · /ɐsˈɪstəns/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/assistance
Updated: 2026-05-02

## Definition

help or support that you give to someone. You use this word in more formal situations, like at work or in a store.

For teachers: the provision of help or support to facilitate the completion of a task. Often used in formal or professional contexts as a more elevated synonym for 'help'.

## Examples

- Please let me know if you need any assistance with your bags.
- The local government provided financial assistance to small businesses affected by the recent floods.
- Technical assistance is available around the clock to ensure that any software disruptions are resolved before they impact the company's global operations.

## Pitfalls

- Not "I need an assistance" but "I need some assistance" — Assistance is uncountable and cannot be used with the indefinite article 'an'.

## Usage notes

- Typically functions as an uncountable noun; it is rarely used in the plural form 'assistances'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.