adv

helplessly

HEHLP-luhs-lee

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

more helplessly comparative, most helplessly superlative

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

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

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