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solicit

English → EnglishformalInstant · from the shared dictionary
Illustration of "solicit": To solicit means to ask for something—such as money, help, information, or support—in a persistent o

What does "solicit" mean?

To solicit means to ask for something—such as money, help, information, or support—in a persistent or earnest way. The mental image is of someone reaching out to others, actively seeking to gather resources or opinions, often from a position of needing a specific outcome or contribution. While it is a formal term, it is frequently used in professional, legal, or commercial contexts. It can imply a professional request for business, but it also carries a slightly negative connotation when used in phrases like "soliciting bribes" or "soliciting illegal acts," where it implies an active, intentional attempt to induce someone to do something wrong.

"solicit" in conversation

Office policy

Are we allowed to solicit donations for the charity run in the breakroom?

Are we allowed to solicit donations for the charity run in the breakroom?

I believe HR has a policy against soliciting for any non-company events.

I believe HR has a policy against soliciting for any non-company events.

'Solicit' is commonly used in workplace policies regarding fundraising.

Market research

We need to solicit feedback from our users before the next update.

We need to solicit feedback from our users before the next update.

Agreed, let's send out a survey to the beta testers by Friday.

Agreed, let's send out a survey to the beta testers by Friday.

In professional settings, 'solicit' is a more precise alternative to 'ask for'.

"solicit" in a sentence

  1. The charity began to solicit donations from local businesses.

    The charity began to solicit donations from local businesses.

  2. The company was accused of soliciting illegal bribes from government officials.

    The company was accused of soliciting illegal bribes from government officials.

  3. The committee sought to solicit expert opinions to ensure the policy was comprehensive.

    The committee sought to solicit expert opinions to ensure the policy was comprehensive.

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