I came across an interesting question this week from one of students. What is the difference between help and help out? Although, these are very similar words, their meanings are a little different.

First, 90% of the time you can use these both of these words in the same sentence. It will have the same meaning. There are a few times however, that using 'help out' correctly will be clearer.

Let's define 'help':

“to make it easier for someone to do something” from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary.

For example:

I helped Mr. Bunny study English.

Can I help you?

I'm helping John make dinner.

Be careful, 'help' does not need 'to'. Not using 'to' will usually sound more natural.

I helped him to clean. (OK, but not natural)

I helped him clean. (Most natural)

Now let's define 'help out':

“to help someone, especially by giving them money or working for them” from the Cambridge Learner's Dictionary.

For example:

Mom was sick, so I stayed home and helped out. I did the dishes, the windows, and the laundry. I'm tired!

He helped out his little sister. He gave her some money because she lost her job.

'help out' is more specific than 'help.' 'help' is used more often and is the safest. But give 'help out' a try!

Can you make a sentence using helped out? Please post it in the comments below.

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