Asistir meaning "to assist"?

AA W.C1Kwiziq community member

Asistir meaning "to assist"?

Hello!  I was always taught that "asistir" was a false cognate to "assist" (to aid/help) in English.  My understanding was that "asistir a" means "to attend," either attending an event/school, etc. or to wait on someone.  Can you please clarify whether "asistir" in fact can be used to mean "to assist"?  Thank you!

Asked 1 year ago
David M.C1 Kwiziq Q&A super contributor Correct answer

Hello there AA -

Yes, according to my two dictionaries, it can sometimes mean 'assist' or 'help'. [The "Oxford" dictionary labels this as "formal" usage].

InmaNative Spanish expert teacher in Kwiziq

Hola AA

Yes, asistir is also used (although more formally than "ayudar) with this meaning. 

Saludos

AA W. asked:

Asistir meaning "to assist"?

Hello!  I was always taught that "asistir" was a false cognate to "assist" (to aid/help) in English.  My understanding was that "asistir a" means "to attend," either attending an event/school, etc. or to wait on someone.  Can you please clarify whether "asistir" in fact can be used to mean "to assist"?  Thank you!

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