avail

Help or success in reaching a goal, usually in the phrase “to no avail”.

• We searched everywhere, to no avail.
• She tried to persuade him, but to no avail.
• Their extra training was of little avail.

How to use it: to no avail (He called several times, to no avail.); of little/no avail (The warning was of little avail.)

Similar words: use, benefit, effect

Common phrases: to no avail, of little avail

A short meeting where a public figure answers questions from reporters.

• The candidate held a press avail outside the hotel.
• Reporters asked about taxes during the avail.
• The campaign scheduled another avail for Friday.

Similar words: press availability, press briefing

Common phrases: press avail, hold an avail

To use something helpful that is offered or available.

• Please avail yourself of our free advice.
• She availed herself of the library’s facilities.
• Few visitors avail themselves of this service.

How to use it: avail oneself of something (Students may avail themselves of the free tutoring service.)

Similar words: use, make use of, take advantage of

Common phrases: avail yourself of, avail oneself of

To be useful or help achieve a result.

• Their efforts availed nothing.
• His pleas did not avail.
• What could our small force avail against such an army?

Similar words: help, work, succeed

Common phrases: avail little, avail against something, avail someone nothing, avail someone little