Helplessly

/ˈhɛlpləsli/

Meaning & Definition

adverb

In a manner that expresses inability to take action or control events.

She watched helplessly as the storm destroyed their home.

Without the power to change a situation.

He stood helplessly at the edge of the cliff, unable to assist his friend.

In a way that indicates a lack of strength or ability.

The child cried helplessly, seeking comfort from her mother.

In a state of vulnerability or powerlessness.

The puppy whimpered helplessly, lost and alone in the park.

Expressing resignation or despair due to lack of options.

She felt helplessly trapped in her situation, with no way out.

From 'helpless' + '-ly' (adverbial suffix), meaning lacking the ability to help or assist.

helplessly in love

To be deeply in love without being able to control feelings or actions.

helplessly watching

Observing a situation without the ability to intervene or change it.

helpless

Lacking the ability to help oneself.

helplessness

The state of being unable to act or respond.

Out of luck

When she saw the final score, she knew she was out of luck.

At a dead end

When the plan failed, he felt like he was at a dead end.