noun HSK 4
Traditional 幫手
helper · assistant · helping hand
Meaning
帮手 refers to a person who assists or helps with tasks, or the act of lending a hand. It combines 帮 (to help) and 手 (hand), literally meaning 'helping hand.' This word is commonly used in everyday contexts to refer to someone who provides assistance, whether in work, household chores, or other activities.
Usage
帮手 is frequently used in casual and work contexts. It can refer to both professional assistants and informal helpers. Common in phrases like '找个帮手' (to find a helper) or '需要帮手' (to need help/an assistant). The term is neutral in register and appropriate for most situations.
Examples
- 01这项工作太多了，我需要找个帮手。, .This work is too much; I need to find a helper.
- 02她是我的得力帮手，工作非常认真负责。, .She is my capable assistant; she works very conscientiously and responsibly.
Characters
Measure words
- 个一个帮手
- 位两位帮手
Common collocations
- 找帮手to look for a helper
- 需要帮手to need help/an assistant
- 得力帮手capable assistant, reliable helper
- 好帮手good helper
Origin
The word combines 帮 (help/assist) with 手 (hand), creating a concrete image of a 'helping hand,' which naturally extends to mean a person who helps.