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Dictionary.com

serve to

VERB
tend
Synonyms
STRONGEST
bear contribute favor go gravitate influence lean turn
STRONG
aim bend conduce dispose drift head impel incline lead look move point redound trend
WEAK
be biased be conducive be disposed be in the habit of be inclined be liable be predisposed be prejudiced have a tendency have an inclination make for move toward result in verge on
Antonyms
STRONGEST
dislike hurt shun take
STRONG
dissuade follow obey
WEAK
abandon ignore neglect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

They can serve to relax listeners while challenging the player.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

The reported deal would likely do little to fundamentally change that trajectory, but might serve to help SiriusXM and iHeartMedia maintain their combined market position for longer.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 27, 2026

They’ve already had one win with the ongoing construction of an $150-million El Segundo practice facility, which should open next year and serve to attract the type of stars that a Los Angeles team deserves.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

Sinner won 43 of 47 first-serve points, hit 10 aces and won 60% of points behind his second serve to remain in control of the match.

From BBC • Mar. 15, 2026

I was reluctant, but in this case relented because I knew the photograph would only be published overseas, and might serve to help our cause if the article was even the least bit friendly.

From "Long Walk to Freedom" by Nelson Mandela