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help out

A2 neutral separable both
In simple words

To help someone when they need it.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To assist someone who needs help, especially on a temporary or occasional basis.

"Could you help me out with these boxes? They're too heavy to carry alone."

"If you see somebody falling down, help them out."

— Barack Obama, commencement address, 2016
Grammar: separable
2 A2 neutral

To contribute work or effort, especially to ease a burden shared by a group.

"All the neighbours helped out after the flood damaged several homes on the street."

Grammar: inseparable
3 A2 neutral

To provide financial assistance to someone in need.

"My parents helped me out when I lost my job and couldn't pay the rent."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

Extremely common in everyday spoken English. Can be used with or without a direct object ('Can you help out?' or 'Can you help me out?'). Friendly, informal tone.

Commonly used with

friend colleague family financially occasionally whenever

Forms

Base
help out
I/you/we/they
3rd person
helps out
he/she/it
Past simple
helped out
yesterday
Past participle
helped out
have + pp
-ing form
helping out
continuous

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