helpful
helpful — adjective
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.