assist

Assist is a term that denotes providing aid, support, or help to another person or task. As a noun in sport, an assist refers to a contribution that helps set up a score, typically via a pass or precise setup that enables a teammate to score. The concept is used across several games and leagues, though the exact criteria for an assist can vary.

The word derives from Latin assistere, via Old French assister, and entered English in the late medieval period. It shares a common root with related terms such as assistant and assistance, all centered on the idea of standing by to help.

In sports, the specifics differ by game: basketball credits an assist to the passer of a ball that leads directly to a made basket; soccer or football awards an assist for a pass or cross that creates a goal; ice hockey recognizes one or two players who passed the puck to the goal scorer. Assists are used as a statistic to gauge playmaking and teamwork.

Beyond sports, assist denotes the act of helping in everyday activities and in professional contexts. Assistive technology refers to devices and software that help people with disabilities perform tasks, including screen readers, voice recognition, and augmentative communication tools. Digital assistants and chatbots are software programs designed to help users by answering questions, scheduling tasks, or controlling devices. In service industries, assistance can refer to customer support and responsive help desks.

Overall, assist is a versatile term spanning linguistics, sports, disability support, and modern technology, retaining the core idea of enabling action through help.