What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
backstopped
Example
The goalie was backstopped by his teammates, who defended the goal with great determination. [backstopped: verb]
Example
The company had a strong financial backstop to ensure they could handle any unexpected expenses. [backstop: noun]
assist
Example
She assisted her friend in preparing for the exam by explaining difficult concepts. [assisted: verb]
Example
The organization provided financial assistance to families affected by the natural disaster. [assistance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Assist is more commonly used than backstopped in everyday language. Assist is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as helping someone with a task or contributing to a cause. On the other hand, backstopped is less common and is mainly used in sports-related discussions or situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between backstopped and assist?
Both backstopped and assist can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, backstopped may be more commonly used in informal conversations among sports enthusiasts, while assist can be employed in a wider range of formality levels.