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

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 notes

In plain EnglishWithout being able to do anything about a situation.

Common pairings

watch helplessly stare helplessly

Word forms

more helplessly comparative, most helplessly superlative

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He watched _____ as the car slid off the icy road.

Etymology

From "helpless" plus the adverb-forming suffix "-ly."

Synonyms

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impotently unable to help

Rhymes for helplessly

expressly aimlessly endlessly carelessly hopelessly painlessly fearlessly recklessly tirelessly ruthlessly selflessly needlessly

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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.