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avail

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /əˈveɪl/

KK: /əˈveɪl/

intransitive verb
Definition

To be useful or helpful in a particular situation.


Example

The new policy will not avail if people do not follow it.


Tense Forms

Past: availed

Past Participle: availed


Conversation
Sloth A
I really thought that plan would avail us some time.
Sloth B
Yeah, I was hoping it would work out too.
Sloth A
Next time, we should come up with a backup plan that might actually avail us something.
Sloth B
Good idea! Having options is always a smart move.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
benefit
help
serve
Antonyms
hinder
impede
obstruct
noun
Definition

The use or benefit of something, often referring to an advantage gained from an action or effort.


Example

He tried to convince her to join the team, but it was to no avail.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you find any avail in those job applications you sent out?
Sloth B
Not really, it feels like a lot of effort for nothing.
Sloth A
Yeah, I know what you mean; sometimes it seems like it’s all for no avail.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To be useful or helpful to someone or something; to provide an advantage or benefit.


Example

The new strategy will avail the company in increasing its market share.


Tense Forms

Past: availed

Past Participle: availed


Conversation
Sloth A
I tried everything to fix my old laptop, but nothing seemed to avail me.
Sloth B
That sounds frustrating! Have you thought about getting it checked by a professional?
Sloth A
Yeah, I guess I should, since my efforts didn’t avail at all.
Root Explanation

Avail → It originates from Old French 'availer' (meaning to be of use or benefit) and is derived from the Latin 'valere' (meaning to be strong or to be worth). The word 'avail' means to be of use or to help.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'of use' or 'beneficial' — that's what 'avail' means.

Visually Confused Words
vail
aval
travail
reavail
vakil
naval
cavil
caval
Is this page helpful?
Exactly! But we have to keep trying until something works out.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
benefit
advantage
use
Antonyms
disadvantage
loss
harm
Sloth B
Definitely! It might save you a lot of time and hassle.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
assist
benefit
aid
Antonyms
hinder
impede
obstruct