手 伝(てつだ)う

てつだう

verb (godan)

to help, to assist

1. to help, to assist

To give assistance with a task or activity. Less urgent than 助(たす)ける, used for everyday help with chores or work.

Shall I help with the homework?

Offering help

母(はは)の仕事(しごと)を手伝(てつだ)いました。

I helped my mother with her work.

手伝(てつだ)ってくれてありがとう。

Thank you for helping me.

I helped my father with shopping and carried heavy bags.

I promised to go help when my friend moves.

TRANSITIVITY: 他動詞(たどうし) (transitive). No pair verb. Pattern: Xを手伝(てつだ)う (help with X).

ASPECT: ている indicates ongoing action. 手伝(てつだ)っている = 'is helping.'

COMMON PATTERNS:

For everyday assistance. Different from 助(たす)ける (rescue/serious help). Noun: お手伝(てつだ)い (help/helper).

手伝(てつだ)う