Sometimes these words, “aid vs aide,” might seem the same to you. Someone can see a sentence written with “Aid” and feel like it was a typographical error from the writer, not knowing that the writer was exactly using the word.
The amazing thing about it is that they have almost the same pronunciation (homophones) but different meanings depending on the context. And I guess that why there is difficulty in differentiating both.
Thus, in this article, I will explain the differences in “aid vs aide” and help you understand how to and when to use them.
What is Aid?
Aid can be a verb, a noun, or an adjective meaning “Help” or “to help.” It could also mean assistance. The past tense is aided.
On the other hand, Aid is the help you give to another country in the form of resources or monetary terms. It could mean providing support to someone who is in need.
- The director promised aid(noun) to the cleaner that broke down his car.
- Please allow me to be precise in what I heard from the teacher, she said, “Aid(Noun) is more ideal than help”.
- She travelled abroad to aid(verb) his ageing father.
- The easiest way to cope with college fee is to go for Financial aid(Noun)
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What is Aide?
An aide is a noun meaning “Assistant.” An assistant is someone who helps to provide a solution to a problem. It was derived from a French word, “aide-de-camp,” in the case of a military officer who assists a senior officer with some significant operations.
In Aid vs Aide, while Aid is the process, the Aide is the person involved.
- Sometimes I try to understand how the President handles all the duties, then I was told he has an Aide for every task.
- Who can be an Aide in the exam hall?
- The commissioner’s best aide just got a raise.
How to Remember in Aid vs Aide:
Although these two phrases sound alike, here are the major differences:
- Aid: to help someone
- Aide: The person helping or providing help.
More advanced way to differentiate the two:
- Aid: help (three-letter word goes with the four-letter word)
- Aide: helper. (four-letter word goes with the six-letter word)
What of AIDS? in Aid vs Aide?
AIDS means Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome, so it’s separate when comparing “aid vs aide.” On the other hand, the plural of “Aide” could be “Aides” with an “E.”
Other Phrases associated with it:
- To be a trusted aide: This means to be a sincere aide who gives true and concise information at the right time.
- To serve as an aide to: This means to be an assistant to someone.
“Aid vs Aide”: Final tips
The differences in “aid vs aide” are easy to understand, so use these words regularly and you will get used to them.
Awesome one, I hope this article answered your question.