Helpful Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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helpful
[ˈhɛlpfəl ]
Definitions
in a positive context
Giving or ready to give help. Providing useful assistance; beneficial.
Synonyms
aiding, beneficial, supportive, useful.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| helpful |
This word is used to describe someone or something that provides assistance in general situations.
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| useful |
This term is used to describe something that has a practical function or can be used to achieve a purpose.
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| beneficial |
This word is used to describe something that has a positive effect or is good for a person or situation.
|
| supportive |
Used to describe a person or group that provides emotional or practical support.
|
| aiding |
Typically used in formal or legal contexts to describe assistance, often with a focus on active help or intervention.
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Examples of usage
- Her advice was very helpful in solving the problem.
- The guide provided helpful information for the tourists.
- The supportive community was always helpful in times of need.
in a positive context
In a way that is useful or beneficial.
Synonyms
beneficially, supportively, usefully.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| helpful |
When describing someone or something that provides assistance or makes a situation easier.
|
| usefully |
Applies to something done in a practical or effective manner, ensuring that it fulfills a function well; often related to tools, information, or tasks.
|
| supportively |
Describes an action or demeanor that shows support, encouragement, or assistance, often emotionally or morally.
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Examples of usage
- She always speaks very calmly and helpfully during our meetings.
- The instructions were laid out clearly and helpfully.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Research shows that being helpful can boost your mood, making you feel happier and more fulfilled.
- Acts of kindness, like being helpful, trigger the release of endorphins, often called the 'helper's high.'
- Helping others can strengthen social ties and can lead to overall better mental well-being.
Education
- In educational settings, helpful behaviors among peers promote a positive learning environment and teamwork.
- Teachers often encourage helpfulness, believing it fosters empathy and cooperation among students.
- Many schools implement programs to recognize and reward helpful behavior to motivate students.
Cultural Significance
- In many cultures, being helpful is a sign of good upbringing and moral character.
- The concept of helpfulness can be seen in various idioms, such as 'a friend in need is a friend indeed,' emphasizing the value of support.
- Communities often celebrate and honor those known for their helpful actions, reflecting a shared value of cooperation.
Pop Culture
- Popular movies often depict characters who embody helpfulness as heroes, influencing audiences to value altruism.
- Talk shows and social media campaigns frequently highlight helpfulness in everyday life, promoting a culture of giving back.
- The character of Mary Poppins is famously helpful, showcasing the joy and magic in assisting others.
Origin of 'helpful'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'helpful' comes from the Old English 'helpan', meaning to aid or assist.
- It was first used in the 14th century, depicting a person who provides assistance or support.
- Combining 'help' and the suffix '-ful' emphasizes the idea of being full of assistance.
The word 'helpful' originated from the Middle English word 'helpful'. It has been used in the English language to describe something that provides assistance or support since the 14th century. The concept of being helpful is valued across cultures and has been a key aspect of human interaction throughout history.
See also: helper, helpers, helpfully, helpfulness, helping, helpless, helplessly, helplessness, unhelpful.