abet
/əˈbɛt/
Group 18Difficulty 2/3
Definition
- (verb)
- To encourage or assist someone to do something wrong, especially to commit a crime GRE
Example in Context
The investigation revealed that several officials had actively abetted the fraud by falsifying records and destroying evidence.
Synonyms
helpassistencourage
Etymology
To encourage someone to 'bet' on doing something wrong.
- ad- (Latin) — to
- bet (Old English) — to bait or provoke
Memory Aid
🎲Sounds like “a bet”
When you PLACE A BET on a crime, you're ABETTING the act!
Visual Association
🕵️♂️A shady figure whispering to a friend, urging them to commit a heist.
Semantic Clusters
Synonym Groups
Frequently Asked Questions
What does “abet” mean on the GRE?
abet (verb) means “To encourage or assist someone to do something wrong, especially to commit a crime”. The investigation revealed that several officials had actively abetted the fraud by falsifying records and destroying evidence.
How to remember “abet” for the GRE?
Mnemonic: “abet” sounds like “a bet”. When you PLACE A BET on a crime, you're ABETTING the act!
What are synonyms for “abet”?
Common synonyms: help, assist, encourage.