adv
helplessly
HEHLP-luhs-lee
Helplessly (adv) means In a way that shows an inability to help oneself or take action. Example: “He watched helplessly as the car slid off the icy road.”
adv
1
In a way that shows an inability to help oneself or take action.
"He watched helplessly as the car slid off the icy road."
How to use helplessly
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishWithout being able to do anything about a situation.
Common pairings
watch helplessly
stare helplessly
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Word forms
- Comparative
- more helplessly
- Superlative
- most helplessly
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
He watched _____ as the car slid off the icy road.
Etymology
From "helpless" plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly."
Synonyms
View more →
impotently
unable to help
Rhymes for helplessly
expressly
aimlessly
endlessly
carelessly
hopelessly
painlessly
fearlessly
recklessly
tirelessly
ruthlessly
selflessly
needlessly
See all rhymes for helplessly →
Frequently asked questions
What does “helplessly” mean?
The word “helplessly” means in a way that shows an inability to help oneself or take action. In plain terms, without being able to do anything about a situation.
How do you pronounce “helplessly”?
“Helplessly” is pronounced HEHLP-luhs-lee (/ˈhɛlpləsli/ in IPA).
How do you use “helplessly” in a sentence?
Here is “helplessly” used in a sentence: “He watched helplessly as the car slid off the icy road.”
What part of speech is “helplessly”?
“Helplessly” is an adverb.
