abets

/əˈbɛts/

VERB

1. Encouraging or assisting wrongdoing

Encourages, assists, or supports another person in committing a crime, unlawful act, or other wrongdoing.

Used when someone knowingly helps, encourages, or facilitates another person in carrying out a crime or illegal activity.

The investigation revealed that the businessman knowingly abets the illegal operation.
Anyone who abets criminal activity may face serious legal consequences.
The authorities accused the organization of abetting human trafficking.

Used when someone reinforces, encourages, or enables another person's irresponsible, harmful, or destructive behavior.

Parents who constantly excuse aggressive behavior may unintentionally abet their children's misconduct.
The manager's silence abets unethical practices within the organization.
His approval only abets her increasingly reckless decisions.

VERB

Provides assistance, encouragement, or support that helps someone or something progress, develop, or achieve a particular objective.

Used when someone provides help, resources, or practical assistance to another person or activity.

The organization abets local communities by providing financial and educational assistance.
Her mentorship abets the professional development of young entrepreneurs.

Used when someone encourages, strengthens, or advances an initiative, cause, activity, or process.

Government investment abets economic development in rural communities.
The new policy abets innovation by encouraging cooperation between universities and businesses.
Community participation abets the success of environmental conservation programs.