helfen
Meaning and Usage
"helfen" means "to help" in German. It is used to convey offering or providing assistance or support to someone in need.
Linguistic Analysis
"helfen" is a regular verb and does not have a prefix. It comes from the Old High German word "helfan," which has the same meaning.
Comparisons between German and English
The German word "helfen" directly translates to the English word "to help." Both words are used in similar contexts and have the same meaning.
Cultural Context
In German culture, offering help and support is seen as a positive and admirable trait. The concept of "Hilfsbereitschaft" (willingness to help others) is highly valued.
Example Sentences
- Kann ich dir helfen? (Can I help you?)
- Sie hat mir gestern beim Umzug geholfen. (She helped me move yesterday.)
Memory Tips
Associate "helfen" with the English word "help" as they have a similar meaning and pronunciation.
Additional Vocabulary
- helfen = to help
- die Hilfe = the help
- unterstützen = to support
- der Helfer / die Helferin = the helper
Gender and Plural (for nouns)
N/A
Conjugation (for verbs)
- ich helfe (I help)
- du hilfst (you help)
- er/sie/es hilft (he/she/it helps)
- wir helfen (we help)
- ihr helft (you [plural] help)
- sie helfen (they help)