Aid or Aide: Which One Do You Mean?

The words aid and aide are spoken the same way, and the only difference in their spelling is a single e. Does that mean you can use either one?

Actually, the two words have entirely different meanings and uses. We will explain them in today’s short post.

How to Use the Word Aid

The word aid has two meanings. As a verb, it means “to help” or “to assist.”

Examples

Joan’s doctor recommended vitamins to aid her body in recovering from illness.

The bank manager kindly offered to aid me with my loan application.

Aid can also be used as a noun that means “assistance.”

Examples

A good night’s sleep can be a wonderful study aid.

A simple kind word can sometimes be a great aid to someone.

You are probably familiar with both of these usages. But what about the differently spelled word aide?

What Does Aide Mean?

The word aide is a noun that refers to a person who assists someone else. It can also be used as a title in some positions and contexts.

Examples

I wasn’t able to speak with the governor, but his aide was very helpful.

My mother has been able to live independently with occasional visits from a home health aide.

 

Pop Quiz

Using what you have learned about aid and aide, choose the proper word in each sentence.

1. My sister and I are close. She knows I will always come to her [aid / aide].

2. Sometimes I feel as if the senator’s [aid / aide] is the one who is truly in charge.

3. Colleges provide many forms of [aid / aide], but it can still be difficult for some students to pay their tuition.

4. I will have to serve as an [aid / aide] to the professor before submitting work under my own name.

5. Science has shown that being around plants and forests can [aid / aide] a person’s mental health.

 

Pop Quiz Answers

1. My sister and I are close. She knows I will always come to her aid.

2. Sometimes I feel as if the senator’s aide is the one who is truly in charge.

3. Colleges provide many forms of aid, but it can still be difficult for some students to pay their tuition.

4. I will have to serve as an aide to the professor before submitting work under my own name.

5. Science has shown that being around plants and forests can aid a person’s mental health.

 

Come Back for More Useful Grammar Tips

With American English, the more you know and understand proper grammar, the more skilled you can become at communicating your thoughts and ideas. That is great asset whether you are using it in business or school or simply applying it to everyday living.

If you want to continue mastering the finer points of grammar in an easier way, stop back again soon for more tips and discussion. You can also leave us a comment below!

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