Soliciting

Soliciting, in its broadest sense, refers to the act of requesting or seeking something from someone, whether it be money, information, favors, or participation. It implies an active approach, an attempt to persuade or influence another to provide something. This often involves making an appeal, expressing a need, or presenting a proposition. The context strongly influences the meaning and legal ramifications; soliciting can range from harmless requests to illegal activities like prostitution or fraudulent fundraising. The intent behind the request, and the nature of what is being sought, are crucial aspects. The use of persuasion, advertising, or direct appeals are all common methods of soliciting. This term encompasses a spectrum of actions aimed at receiving a positive response or agreement from a target individual or group.

Soliciting meaning with examples

• The charity was aggressively soliciting donations on the street corner, hoping to reach its fundraising goal by the end of the month. Volunteers were using various emotional appeals to gain support from passersby for their cause. They targeted high-traffic areas. This active process included various persuasive tactics.
• During the company's annual shareholder meeting, several disgruntled investors were soliciting proxy votes from others, hoping to gain enough power to oust the current board of directors and reshape the company's future. Their effort was met with resistance.
• The investigator discovered that a corrupt politician was soliciting bribes from contractors in exchange for awarding lucrative government contracts. The illegal activity involved secret meetings. This shady behavior warranted investigation.
• Despite the neighborhood association's efforts to prohibit it, street vendors continued soliciting customers with loud calls and tempting displays of their food, creating significant noise and disrupting the peaceful atmosphere. Their actions were a nuisance.