helpful
/ˈhelpfl/ (bre, ipa) · /ˈhelpfl/ (ame, ipa) · /ˈhelp-fəl Southern often ˈhep- also ˈheəp-/ (ame, mw)
helpful — adjective
- helpfulpositive
- more helpfulcomparative
- most helpfulsuperlative
1. describes someone who gives support willingly when asked, or something that make
describes someone who gives support willingly when asked, or something that makes it easier to achieve a result or solve a problem
The hotel staff were helpful; Noa asked for extra towels and they arrived in minutes.
person + helpful + action taken promptly
Priya found the online guide helpful when she tried to repair her bicycle chain.
thing + helpful + for a specific task
Mei's grandmother gave her some helpful tips for growing tomatoes in a small balcony garden.
An afternoon walk can be helpful for people who sit at a desk all day.
Rashida found the new bus route helpful because it cut her commute by twenty minutes.
- useful
applies only to objects, tools, or information — does not describe people
- supportive
more emotional; describes someone who gives encouragement during difficulties
- beneficial
more formal; focuses on long-term positive effects on health or situations
- cooperative
focuses on working together as part of a group rather than individual assistance
- unhelpful
direct opposite; describes someone unwilling to help or something that makes a situation worse
用法筆記
Unlike 'useful' (which describes only objects and information), 'helpful' also describes people who willingly give assistance. When describing a tool or a piece of advice, 'helpful' and 'useful' are often interchangeable, but 'helpful' tends to sound warmer and more personal.