Translation of German word "helfen" to English
helfen
/ˈhɛlfn/
Meaning
VerbTo provide assistance to (someone or something).
How to use
The strong verb helfen ('to help') changes its root vowel in singular present: ich helfe, du hilfst, er hilft. Past forms: half, hat geholfen. Grammatically, it requires the dative case for the person helped (Ich helfe dir — I help you). The task/matter in which help is provided is introduced by the preposition bei + dative (Ich helfe dir beim Umzug — I help you with the move).
🇬🇧 English
to help
Example
Ich helfe dir gerne bei deiner Arbeit.
I'll help you with your work.
Kannst du mir helfen, den Computer zu reparieren?
Can you help me fix the computer?
Your personal vocabulary
🦊 Use this word in a live AI conversationSynonyms
Common phrases
- gern geschehen— you're welcome / happy to help (response to thank you)
- helfen bei— to help with / in (requires preposition 'bei' + dative)
- Gott helfe uns!— God help us!
This concept in other languages
📖 Related grammar
🦊 Conjugation of the verb "helfen"Full conjugation →
Present Tense (Präsens)
Simple Past (Präteritum)
Perfect (Perfekt)
ich habe geholfen
Imperative (Imperativ)
Frequency rank: #179 in German
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the definition of the German word "helfen"?▼
The German word "helfen" is defined as: "To provide assistance to (someone or something)."
What does the German word "helfen" mean?▼
The German word "helfen" means "to help" in English.
How do you pronounce the German word "helfen"?▼
You can hear the correct audio pronunciation of the word "helfen" by clicking the play button next to the word at the top of this page.
Can I see an example sentence with "helfen"?▼
Yes, here is a practical example: "Ich helfe dir gerne bei deiner Arbeit." (which translates as "I'll help you with your work.").
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