solicit - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
solicit Word Meanings
- to ask for something formally or earnestly
- to seek something from someone
- to tempt or lure someone into actions
solicit Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
solicit Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈlɪs.ɪt/
US
/səˈlɪs.ɪt/
solicit Word Etymology
Root decomposition: 'sol-' = alone + 'cit' = to call. Historical origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Picture a person standing alone in a crowd, calling out to attract attention, reflecting the act of soliciting.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Solicit means to ask for something formally or earnestly, and it also can mean to entice or lure someone into an action. It is typically transitive and used in formal contexts such as fundraising, bids, votes, or legal inquiries. The tone can be proactive, sometimes aggressive, depending on the object and context, which is why many learners reserve solicit for official texts and opt for ask or request in casual speech. Remember that you solicit something from someone or solicit someone to do something, not simply solicit in a vacuum. This word often appears beside nouns like donations, feedback, or business opportunities.
Usage Reminders
- Use solicit for formal requests; pair with nouns like donations, bids, opinions, or information. It is transitive and takes a direct object. In casual speech, prefer ask or request. Beware of its positive or negative tones depending on context. Do not say 'solicit a person'—solicit something from a person. The passive form is 'is/are solicited'. Remember common collocations: solicit donations, solicit bids, solicit feedback.
Common Misconceptions
- Think it means asking casually; it does not—it's formal.
- It takes an object (you solicit something), not 'solicit someone'.
- Often confused with 'solicit a business' vs 'solicit business from someone' (object matters).
- Can have negative connotations in the context of illegal acts (prostitution, bribery).
- Best kept for formal writing rather than everyday speech.
Thinking Differences
In English, solicit signals formal, somewhat assertive action and is common in business, legal, or fundraising texts. Learners often overuse it in casual chat or replace it with ask, which can sound too weak or noncommittal.
Learning Tips
- Learn 6 common collocations: donations, bids, feedback, information, advice, opportunities.
- Compare with ask and request to notice tone differences.
- Use passive voice for formal notices: 'is solicited by' someone.
- Practice with both positive (solicit donations) and negative contexts (solicit an inappropriate act).
- Be mindful of formality level; save solicit for written or official language.
- Listen for register cues in legal or corporate texts to spot when to use it.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'solicit'?
A.Run
B.Ask
C.Laugh
D.Jump
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'solicit' used correctly?
A.He solicited donations for charity.
B.She danced at the party.
C.They rode bicycles in the park.
D.I painted a picture yesterday.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'solicit'?
A.Request
B.Avoid
C.Ignore
D.Reject
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'solicit'?
A.Approve
B.Accept
C.Ignore
D.Praise
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would someone 'solicit' help?
A.Studying for a test
B.Skipping school
C.Ignoring a friend's call
D.Cooking dinner alone
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