accept assistance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "accept assistance" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of agreeing to receive help or support from someone. Example: "In times of difficulty, it is important to accept assistance from friends and family."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

27 human-written examples

He has so far refused to accept assistance from the local police chief, fearful of corruption.

The New York Times

Moreover, spouses are often more reluctant to ask for or accept assistance.

The New York Times

A couple in the next room offered to help, and they agreed to accept assistance.

The New Yorker

When they do accept assistance, it tends to be with a combination of gratitude and hesitation.

The New York Times

Other countries are voicing concern about Venezuela's humanitarian crisis, asking Mr. Maduro to simply accept assistance.

The New York Times

Eventually his father realized that it was possible to ask for and accept assistance without feeling like an obligation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

31 human-written examples

Has one of us tried, failed, and reluctantly accepted assistance negotiating a bra or zip?

The Guardian

Still, Subhash Chandra Bose and the Indian National Army, a popular armed force formed by Indian anticolonialists, accepted assistance from Japan.

The New York Times

The urge for independence is seen in all animal species, but relinquishing independence and accepting assistance in old age is unique to humans.

The New York Times

MPs involved in accepting assistance from Care under its educational leadership programme are now facing pressure to sever their ties with the charity.

The Guardian

An appeal by the Spanish Triathlon Federation to disqualify Jonny Brownlee for accepting assistance to get over the line was dismissed by the International Triathlon Union, citing a rule which states athletes may accept help.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "accept assistance", be mindful of the implied power dynamic. Consider whether the assistance is freely offered and willingly accepted, or if there's a coercive element involved. Clarity on this aspect enhances ethical writing.

Common error

Avoid phrasing sentences like "Assistance was accepted by him". Instead, use the active voice: "He accepted assistance." This makes the sentence more direct and easier to understand.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "accept assistance" functions primarily as a verb phrase, where "accept" is the verb and "assistance" is the direct object. It describes the action of receiving help. Ludwig AI confirms its frequent usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "accept assistance" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression referring to the act of receiving help or support. Ludwig AI confirms its broad applicability across diverse contexts. As a verb phrase, it's found frequently in news, scientific, and formal business settings. While generally neutral in register, context is important to avoid passive voice constructions. Recognizing the nuances of when and why individuals or entities "accept assistance" allows for more precise and impactful communication, as hesitations might exist. Related phrases include alternatives such as receive aid and obtain support. Understanding these elements empowers more effective and ethical writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

receive aid

Focuses on the receipt of help, similar to accepting it.

get help

A more general term for obtaining assistance.

obtain support

Highlights the act of acquiring support, akin to accepting assistance.

take help

Implies a more active acceptance of assistance.

make use of aid

Emphasizes utilizing assistance that is offered.

avail oneself of assistance

A more formal way of saying "accept assistance".

draw on resources

Suggests using available support systems.

secure assistance

Focuses on obtaining and ensuring help is received.

welcome assistance

Highlights a positive reception of help.

embrace support

Implies fully and willingly accepting help.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "accept assistance" in a formal context?

In a formal context, you can use alternatives such as "avail oneself of assistance", "receive aid", or "obtain support" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's the difference between "accept assistance" and "ask for help"?

"Accept assistance" implies that help is offered and then agreed upon, whereas "ask for help" suggests actively seeking aid. The former is passive, and the latter is active.

Is it grammatically correct to say "accept of assistance"?

No, the correct phrasing is "accept assistance". The preposition "of" is unnecessary and grammatically incorrect in this context.

What are some common reasons people might hesitate to "accept assistance"?

People may hesitate to "accept assistance" due to feelings of pride, fear of obligation, distrust, or concerns about appearing weak. Understanding these motivations can help in communicating empathetically.