In this synonym question, choose the option that is MOST SIMILAR in meaning to the given word used as a verb: "aids".

Introduction / Context:
This vocabulary question asks you to choose the word that is closest in meaning to "aids" when it is used as a verb. You often see "aid" in contexts like "the nurse aids the doctor" or "the software aids in data analysis". Understanding the core meaning of "aid" will guide you to the correct synonym among the choices given.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target word: "aids" (verb form of "aid").
• Options: Amplifies, Assists, Expands, Borrows.
• We assume "aid" is used in the sense of "help" or "support".
• We are looking for the closest single word substitute.

Concept / Approach:
The verb "to aid" means to help or to support someone or something in achieving a goal. For example, "The guide aids the tourists" means the guide helps them. Among the options, "assists" directly means "helps". The words "amplifies" and "expands" refer to making something larger or stronger, while "borrows" refers to taking something temporarily and is unrelated to helping. Therefore, the strongest synonym is "assists".

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall the basic meaning of "aid": to give help or support. Step 2: Compare that meaning with each option. "Assists" is another verb that means "helps or supports". Step 3: Check "amplifies": this means "increases the volume, strength, or intensity" and is not the same as "helps". Step 4: Check "expands": this means "makes larger" or "increases in size", which again is not a direct synonym of "help". Step 5: Check "borrows": this means "takes something with the intention of returning it" and is clearly unrelated to the meaning of "aid". Step 6: Conclude that "assists" is the best match for "aids".

Verification / Alternative check:
Consider example sentences. "The nurse aids the doctor during surgery" can be rewritten as "The nurse assists the doctor during surgery" without any change in meaning. However, if you replace "aids" with "amplifies", "The nurse amplifies the doctor" becomes nonsensical. Replacing with "expands" or "borrows" also fails to preserve the original idea. This comparison confirms that "assists" is the true synonym here.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
"Amplifies" focuses on increasing magnitude or volume, as in amplifying sound, and does not carry the idea of help.

"Expands" refers to growth or increase in size, not to offering support or assistance.

"Borrows" describes taking something temporarily and does not relate to assisting someone.

Common Pitfalls:
Some learners choose words like "amplifies" or "expands" because they think of help as making something bigger or stronger. However, synonyms must preserve the core meaning, not just a vague association. To avoid this, always mentally substitute the option into a simple sentence with the target word and see whether the sentence still makes sense. If it does not, that option is not a true synonym.

Final Answer:
The word most similar in meaning to "aids" is "Assists", so option B is correct.