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ally

verb

/əˈlaɪ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of ally

To form a close association or partnership between individuals, groups, organizations, or nations.
"The nation sought to ally itself with neighboring countries for mutual defense."

Detailed meaning of ally

When entities ally, they join forces, often based on shared interests, objectives, or common enemies, to work together towards a common goal. This alliance can involve cooperation, collaboration, or mutual support. Secondly, "ally" can mean to align or affiliate oneself with a particular cause, belief, or group. In this sense, individuals or organizations may choose to ally themselves with a certain ideology or movement to express their support or solidarity. Thirdly, "ally" can denote the act of providing support or assistance to someone or something. By allying with someone, an individual offers their help, protection, or resources to aid the other party. This notion of support and collaboration lies at the core of the verb "ally," encompassing the ideas of forming partnerships, aligning oneself with a cause, and providing assistance to others.

Example sentences containing ally

1. The two nations decided to ally against their common enemy.
2. The companies formed a strategic partnership to ally their resources.
3. She sought to ally herself with influential people in her industry.
4. The political parties joined forces to ally against corruption.
5. The countries signed a treaty to ally in matters of defense.
6. The organizations collaborated to ally their efforts for a greater impact.

History and etymology of ally

The verb 'ally' has a fascinating etymology that reflects its essence of forming close associations. It finds its roots in the Old French word 'allier,' which meant 'to ally' or 'to unite.' 'Allier' itself came from the Latin word 'alligare,' where 'ad' signified 'to' and 'ligare' meant 'to bind.' This Latin origin underscores the idea of binding or uniting individuals, groups, organizations, or nations in a close and cooperative relationship. Therefore, when we speak of two entities allying with each other today, we are invoking the historical concept of binding or uniting, as preserved in the word's etymology.

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Further usage examples of ally

1. The team captain worked to ally the different players' strengths.
2. The activist groups allied to advocate for social justice.
3. The tribes formed an alliance to ally against external threats.
4. The students formed a study group to ally and improve their academic performance.
5. The businesses sought to ally their brands for a joint marketing campaign.
6. The communities came together to ally against rising crime rates.
7. The organizations united to ally against discrimination and promote equality.
8. The countries' leaders met to ally their diplomatic efforts.
9. The musicians collaborated to ally their talents for a charity concert.
10. The athletes trained together to ally their skills and achieve success.
11. The parties aligned their interests to ally in negotiations.
12. The parents formed an alliance to ally for improved education standards.
13. The two nations decided to ally for economic growth and stability.
14. The superheroes will ally to defeat the powerful supervillain.
15. Tech companies often ally to develop cutting-edge innovations.
16. Local businesses ally to revitalize the downtown area.
17. The unions will ally to negotiate better worker benefits.
18. Scientists and educators ally to promote STEM education.
19. In times of crisis, nations may ally for mutual defense.
20. Artists and musicians often ally to create inspiring collaborations.
21. Nonprofits ally to address pressing social issues.
22. The rival gangs surprisingly chose to ally against a common threat.
23. Diplomats work tirelessly to ally nations in pursuit of peace.