German word

helfen

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈhɛlfn̩/

Meaning

  • verbhelp

Example

Er hilft mir heute.

He is helping me today.

Illustration for helfen (help)

More examples

Kannst du mir beim Umzug helfen?

Can you help me with the move?

Core concept

A person offers guidance or practical support so another person can manage a difficulty.

Common phrases

  • jemandem helfen

    help someone

  • bei den Hausaufgaben helfen

    help with homework

  • bei der Arbeit helfen

    help with work

Similar words

unterstützen: Offer practical help or resources to move a task or problem forward.
beistehen: Give emotional or practical support during a difficult time.
mithelfen: Take part in a task or activity together with others to provide help.
beitragen: Provide part of the effort or resources needed for a goal or result.

Definition in German

durch eigene Handlung, Rat oder Beistand einer Person ermöglichen, eine Schwierigkeit zu überwinden

Word origin

Helfen continues the Germanic verb family that includes Old High German helfan and the English cognate help.

Usage tips

  • For help with a subject, German uses jemandem bei etwas helfen, with both the person and the subject in the dative.

Other meanings

  • assistverb
  • supportverb
  • be usefulverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word