B1adjectiveemotionshealth
US/ˈhelp.ləs/
UK/ˈhelp.ləs/
not able to look after yourself or to do anything to change a bad situation
In context
I felt completely helpless when my mother was in hospital and I couldn't visit.
Newborn babies are helpless and need care day and night.
We watched helplessly as the floodwater rose into the house.
Words that go with helpless
adverb + adjective
- completely helplessWithout my phone, I felt completely helpless in the foreign city.
- utterly helplessWatching the fire spread, the villagers felt utterly helpless.
adjective + noun
- helpless victimThe film shows her as a helpless victim, but she fights back.
- helpless childA helpless child depends on adults for everything.
- helpless laughterHis silly dance left the whole class in helpless laughter.
adjective + preposition
- helpless toThe police seemed helpless to stop the violence.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The hotel staff were helpless when I asked for directions.Correct: The hotel staff were unhelpful when I asked for directions.