A2noun1K

Assistant

UK /["/əˈsɪstənt/"]/US /["/əˈsɪstənt/"]/

Definition

a person who helps or supports somebody, usually in their job

In simple words: Someone who helps or works for another person.

Examples

  • My assistant will now demonstrate the machine in action.
  • a senior **research assistant**
  • I work part-time as a **classroom assistant** in my local primary school.
  • She was working as a special assistant to the president.
  • She had a clerical assistant to do her paperwork.
  • She is assistant to the Production Manager.
  • He worked as an assistant to the Sales Director.
  • an assistant in a department store
  • Maybe one of our assistants can help you make your choice?

Usage notes

Use 'assistant' in professional or educational settings. Avoid it in casual conversations where more informal terms like 'helper' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a friend assisting you, helping you out.

Collocations

  • chief
  • senior
  • deputy
  • employ (somebody as)
  • have
  • get
  • assistant to
  • chief
  • senior
  • deputy
  • employ (somebody as)
  • have
  • get
  • assistant to

Synonyms

  • helper
  • aide
  • supporter
  • partner
  • co-worker

Antonyms

  • boss
  • leader
  • chief

Common mistakes

  • Confusing 'assistant' with 'assist' which is a verb.
  • Using 'assist' as a noun instead of 'assistant'.