A2adjective1K

Helpful

UK /["/ˈhelpfl/"]/US /["/ˈhelpfl/"]/

Definition

able to improve a particular situation

In simple words: giving help or support

Examples

The helpful guide gave us great tips for exploring the city.
It's always helpful to ask questions when you're unsure about something.
Her helpful comments improved the quality of my presentation.
The customer service representative was very helpful in resolving my issue.
I found the tutorial to be helpful for learning the new software.

Usage notes

Use 'helpful' in a positive context to describe someone or something that assists or makes a task easier. Avoid using it sarcastically.

Grammar pattern

helpful + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'help' + 'full' — it's full of help!

Collocations

be
prove
consider something
extremely
fairly
very
for
in
on
friendly and helpful
be
prove
consider something
extremely
fairly
very
for
in
on
friendly and helpful

Synonyms

useful

Antonyms

unhelpful
hindering
obstructive

Common mistakes

Confused with similar words like 'useful' or 'beneficial'.
Using 'helpful' to describe a negative situation.
Incorrectly placing 'helpful' before verbs.