assess definition essay

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Definition of assess

transitive verb

estimate , appraise , evaluate , value , rate , assess mean to judge something with respect to its worth or significance.

estimate implies a judgment, considered or casual, that precedes or takes the place of actual measuring or counting or testing out.

appraise commonly implies the fixing by an expert of the monetary worth of a thing, but it may be used of any critical judgment.

evaluate suggests an attempt to determine relative or intrinsic worth in terms other than monetary.

value equals appraise but without implying expertness of judgment.

rate adds to estimate the notion of placing a thing according to a scale of values.

assess implies a critical appraisal for the purpose of understanding or interpreting, or as a guide in taking action.

Examples of assess in a Sentence

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'assess.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Middle English, probably from Medieval Latin assessus , past participle of assidēre , from Latin, to sit beside, assist in the office of a judge — more at assize

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Dictionary Entries Near assess

asses' bridge

Cite this Entry

“Assess.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary , Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/assess. Accessed 2 Apr. 2024.

Kids Definition

Kids definition of assess, legal definition, legal definition of assess, more from merriam-webster on assess.

Nglish: Translation of assess for Spanish Speakers

Britannica English: Translation of assess for Arabic Speakers

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