helper

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "helper" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to someone or something that assists or aids in a task or process. Example: "The software includes a built-in helper that guides users through the setup process."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We meet a new character, the Deacon, a churchman who is Bunny Colvin's confidante and Cutty's helper.

The Guardian

Another long-term helper works six days a week as a security guard on minimum wage.

The Guardian - Opinion

The opportunities are clear - new ways to do new things to help improve our lives, be it a home helper, a musical companion, a driving buddy or a fitness adviser.

The Guardian

I'll never forget my 10-year-old helper at Radio Aire who came in with his mum and made me tea: Chris Moyles.

The Guardian

Over coffee, his helper, Carol, gave him the latest Hansard – "very good debates in the Lords, you know".

The Guardian

He and his killer got to know each other through a group for people with mental health issues, which Davidson attended due to her problems with alcohol and where Paterson was a volunteer helper.

The Guardian

But Germany wanted the IMF as external enforcer, to impose rigour not only on Greece but also on the soft-hearted European Commission.More than two years later, the enforcer has at times been Greece's main helper.

The Economist

He also reviewed the work of other people and found about 50 genetic diseases caused by the failure of one enzyme or another to link up with an appropriate helper molecule.

The Economist

She becomes his helper and confidante as Warsaw slides into chaos.

The Economist

The outcome is likely to be a protracted, unsatisfactory political compromise that fails to deal with the issue of communist-era secrets in a conclusive manner.Notably active and a loyal helper to its Soviet counterpart, Bulgaria's communist-era security service is generally assumed to have remained a potent force after the fall of communism.

The Economist

In order to cut corners, you grab the challenging screen in Letterpress, Scrabble or another similar game, launch the helper app and select the appropriate image from the photo library.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When referring to a person who assists regularly, use the term "helper" to convey a sense of support and contribution to a task or project.

Common error

Avoid using "helper" in highly formal or professional settings where a more precise term like "assistant", "aide", or "associate" may be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The noun "helper" functions primarily to identify an individual or thing that provides assistance or aid. It's widely applicable, ranging from describing a person in a support role to a tool assisting with a specific function, as evidenced by examples found by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

43%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "helper" is a common and grammatically correct noun used to describe someone or something that provides assistance. As shown by Ludwig, it appears frequently in News & Media, Encyclopedias and Science contexts. While generally neutral, it can be adapted for formal or informal use depending on the specific term like "assistant" or "aide". It is advisable to avoid overusing the word "helper" in official contexts where a more precise word would be preferable. By analyzing the different usage contexts and providing alternatives, this guide ensures you can use the term "helper" effectively and appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

assistant

This is a direct synonym, focusing on someone who aids another.

assistant

Focuses on providing aid or service.

aide

Implies a more subordinate role, often in a professional setting.

supporter

Highlights the act of giving encouragement or backing.

benefactor

Suggests providing help that benefits someone.

colleague

Indicates a working partner offering support.

ally

Emphasizes a partnership for mutual support.

associate

Someone connected to another, often offering assistance.

collaborator

Highlights working together to achieve a common goal.

adjutant

An assistant, typically in a military or formal context.

FAQs

How can I use "helper" in a sentence?

You can use "helper" to refer to someone who provides assistance. For example, "She was a great helper in organizing the event" or "The software includes a built-in helper that guides users through the setup process."

What are some alternatives to the word "helper"?

You can use alternatives like "assistant", "aide", or "supporter" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "helper" or "assistant"?

Both "helper" and "assistant" are correct, but "assistant" is often used in more formal settings. "Helper" is a more general term for someone who provides aid.

What's the difference between a "helper" and a "volunteer"?

A "helper" is anyone who provides assistance, while a "volunteer" specifically offers their help without expecting payment. A volunteer is a type of helper.