Are you someone who gets confused between the words “help” and “hinder”? Do you find yourself using them interchangeably? It’s time to put an end to this confusion. In this article, we will explore the meanings of both words and help you understand the difference between them.
Help and hinder are two words that are often used in a similar context, but they have completely different meanings. Help is a verb that means to assist or aid someone in doing something. On the other hand, hinder is a verb that means to obstruct or prevent someone from doing something.
Now that we have a clear understanding of what each word means, let’s dive deeper into the differences between the two. While help is a positive action that benefits someone, hinder is a negative action that can cause harm. When you help someone, you are making their life easier and better. When you hinder someone, you are making their life harder and more difficult.
In this article, we will explore the various ways in which these two words are used and how they can impact different aspects of our lives. We will also discuss the importance of using the right word in the right context.
Define Help
Help can be defined as the act of providing assistance or support to someone or something in order to achieve a desired outcome. It involves taking actions or providing resources that contribute positively to the success of a person, organization, or project. Help can come in different forms, such as advice, guidance, training, funding, or physical assistance.
Helping someone can be a selfless act that promotes growth, development, and progress. It can be a way to share knowledge, skills, and resources to empower others and make a positive impact on their lives. Help can also be a way to build relationships, trust, and goodwill, as it creates a sense of reciprocity and gratitude.
Define Hinder
Hinder, on the other hand, refers to the act of obstructing, impeding, or slowing down the progress or success of someone or something. It involves taking actions or creating conditions that negatively affect the performance, productivity, or wellbeing of a person, organization, or project.
Hindering someone can be a selfish act that stems from envy, competition, or malice. It can be a way to maintain power, control, or dominance over others, or to prevent them from achieving their goals. Hindering can also be a way to create conflict, tension, and resentment, as it undermines trust and cooperation.
Examples of hindering actions include withholding information, resources, or opportunities; spreading rumors or gossip; sabotaging projects or initiatives; creating unnecessary obstacles or delays; or using intimidation or coercion.
How To Properly Use The Words In A Sentence
Using the right words in a sentence can make a significant difference in the message you are trying to convey. The words you choose can either help or hinder the clarity of your message. In this section, we will discuss how to use the words “help” and “hinder” in a sentence.
How To Use “Help” In A Sentence
The word “help” is commonly used to indicate that someone or something is providing assistance or support to another person or thing. Here are some examples of how to use “help” in a sentence:
- She helped her friend with her homework.
- The new software will help improve the efficiency of the company.
- Can you help me carry this box?
It is important to note that “help” can also be used as a noun. In this case, it refers to the assistance or support that is being provided. Here are some examples:
- The volunteers provided much-needed help to the victims of the hurricane.
- I appreciate your help with this project.
How To Use “Hinder” In A Sentence
The word “hinder” is used to indicate that someone or something is causing an obstacle or difficulty for another person or thing. Here are some examples of how to use “hinder” in a sentence:
- The bad weather hindered our progress on the road trip.
- The lack of resources is hindering the company’s growth.
- His injury hindered his ability to play in the game.
Similar to “help,” “hinder” can also be used as a noun. In this case, it refers to the obstacle or difficulty that is being caused. Here are some examples:
- The lack of funding has been a hinder to the completion of the project.
- The traffic was a major hinder to our arrival at the airport on time.
It is essential to use the words “help” and “hinder” appropriately in a sentence, as they have opposite meanings. Using these words correctly can help you effectively communicate your message.
More Examples Of Help & Hinder Used In Sentences
Understanding how to use the words help and hinder correctly is essential in effective communication. Here are some examples of how to use these words in a sentence.
Examples Of Using Help In A Sentence
- The new software will help streamline the company’s operations.
- I’m happy to help you with your project.
- Volunteering at the local food bank is a great way to help those in need.
- Can you help me move this heavy box?
- His positive attitude helped him overcome the difficult situation.
- Reading books can help improve your vocabulary.
- She helped her friend by lending her money.
- The government is providing financial aid to help businesses affected by the pandemic.
- Regular exercise can help reduce stress levels.
- Using a map can help you navigate through unfamiliar territory.
Examples Of Using Hinder In A Sentence
- The rainy weather will hinder our plans for a picnic.
- His lack of experience may hinder his chances of getting the job.
- The traffic jam hindered our progress on the road trip.
- Her fear of public speaking hindered her from giving a presentation.
- The broken elevator hindered our ability to access the top floor.
- His injury hindered his ability to play in the game.
- The outdated technology hinders the efficiency of the company.
- The language barrier hindered communication between the two parties.
- The high cost of living hinders many people from pursuing their dreams.
- The strict rules of the school hinder creativity among students.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
When it comes to using the words “help” and “hinder,” it’s important to understand the differences between the two. Unfortunately, many people use these words interchangeably, which can lead to confusion and misunderstandings. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
Using “Help” When You Mean “Hinder”
One common mistake is using “help” when you really mean “hinder.” For example, saying “I helped my friend study for his exam” when you actually distracted him from studying would be incorrect. This mistake can be particularly problematic in work settings, where miscommunication can lead to costly mistakes.
Using “Hinder” When You Mean “Help”
Conversely, using “hinder” when you mean “help” can also be a problem. For instance, saying “I hindered my colleague with her project” when you actually provided valuable input would be incorrect. This mistake can be especially damaging in team environments, where teamwork and collaboration are essential.
Assuming “Help” Is Always Positive
Another common mistake is assuming that “help” is always positive. While it’s true that help can be beneficial, it’s important to recognize that it can also have negative consequences. For example, helping someone too much can lead to them becoming overly reliant on you, which can be detrimental to their growth and development.
Assuming “Hinder” Is Always Negative
Similarly, assuming that “hinder” is always negative is also a mistake. While hindering someone can certainly be harmful, it can also be necessary in certain situations. For instance, hindering someone from engaging in dangerous or risky behavior can be a positive thing.
Tips For Avoiding These Mistakes
To avoid these common mistakes, it’s important to be clear and specific in your language. If you’re not sure whether to use “help” or “hinder,” take a moment to consider the situation and the potential consequences of your actions. Additionally, be mindful of the context in which you’re using these words, and be sure to clarify any potential misunderstandings with your audience.
Context Matters
When it comes to the choice between “help” and “hinder,” context is key. Depending on the situation, what might be considered helpful in one context could actually hinder progress in another. It’s important to consider the specific circumstances before deciding whether to offer assistance or hold back.
Examples Of Different Contexts
Here are a few examples of different contexts and how the choice between help and hinder might change:
1. Education
| Context | Help or Hinder? |
|---|---|
| A student struggling with a difficult assignment | Help |
| A student who consistently relies on others to do their work for them | Hinder |
In an educational setting, the choice between help and hinder can be particularly nuanced. While it’s generally a good idea to offer assistance to a struggling student, enabling a student to rely on others to do their work for them can ultimately hinder their ability to learn and grow.
2. Business
| Context | Help or Hinder? |
|---|---|
| A colleague who is new to the company and needs guidance | Help |
| A colleague who consistently misses deadlines and relies on others to pick up the slack | Hinder |
In a business setting, the choice between help and hinder can be equally complex. While it’s important to offer guidance and support to a new colleague, consistently enabling someone to miss deadlines and rely on others can ultimately hinder the productivity and success of the team.
3. Personal Relationships
| Context | Help or Hinder? |
|---|---|
| A friend going through a difficult time and in need of emotional support | Help |
| A friend who consistently engages in self-destructive behavior and refuses to seek help | Hinder |
Finally, in personal relationships, the choice between help and hinder can be particularly challenging. While it’s important to be there for a friend who is going through a difficult time, enabling self-destructive behavior can ultimately hinder their ability to heal and move forward.
Exceptions To The Rules
While the general rules for using help and hinder are applicable in most situations, there are exceptions where they might not apply. These exceptions can arise due to various factors, such as context, culture, and personal preferences. In this section, we will identify some of the exceptions to the rules for using help and hinder and offer explanations and examples for each case.
Contextual Exceptions
One of the main factors that can affect the applicability of the rules for using help and hinder is the context in which they are used. For example, in emergency situations, the need for immediate action might outweigh the potential risks of hindering someone. In such cases, it might be necessary to act quickly and decisively, even if it means hindering someone’s progress temporarily.
Another contextual exception to the rules for using help and hinder can arise in situations where the stakes are high and the consequences of failure are severe. For instance, in a military operation, the need to accomplish the mission might require hindering the enemy’s ability to defend themselves, even if it means causing harm or loss of life.
Cultural Exceptions
Another factor that can influence the rules for using help and hinder is culture. Different cultures have different norms and values regarding the use of these terms, and what might be considered helpful in one culture might be seen as hindering in another. For example, in some cultures, offering unsolicited help might be seen as intrusive and disrespectful, while in others, it might be seen as a sign of kindness and generosity.
Similarly, some cultures might view hindering someone as a way of showing respect or protecting them from harm. For instance, in some Asian cultures, parents might discourage their children from pursuing certain careers or activities that they deem too risky or challenging, even if the children are capable of succeeding.
Personal Exceptions
Finally, personal preferences can also play a role in the applicability of the rules for using help and hinder. Each person has their own unique strengths, weaknesses, and goals, and what might be helpful or hindering for one person might not be the same for another. For example, some people might prefer to work independently and view any form of help as a hindrance to their creativity and autonomy.
On the other hand, some people might thrive on collaboration and see help as an essential part of the creative process. In such cases, hindering someone’s ability to work with others might be counterproductive and limit their potential for growth and innovation.
| Context | Culture | Personal Preference |
|---|---|---|
| In emergency situations | Offering unsolicited help in some cultures | Some people prefer to work independently |
| In high-stakes situations | Hindering someone as a sign of respect in some cultures | Some people thrive on collaboration |
Overall, while the rules for using help and hinder can provide useful guidance in many situations, it is important to recognize that there are exceptions where they might not apply. By understanding these exceptions and the factors that influence them, we can make more informed decisions about when and how to use help and hinder effectively.
Practice Exercises
One of the best ways to improve your understanding and use of “help” and “hinder” in sentences is through practice exercises. By practicing, you can reinforce your knowledge and develop a better understanding of how to use these words in different contexts. Below are some practice exercises that you can use to improve your skills:
Exercise 1: Fill In The Blank
Directions: Fill in the blank with either “help” or “hinder” to complete the sentence.
- The bad weather will __________ our travel plans.
- I hope this book will __________ me understand the topic better.
- His negative attitude will only __________ his chances of success.
- Can you __________ me carry this heavy box?
- The new technology will __________ us to work more efficiently.
Answer Key:
- hinder
- help
- hinder
- help
- help
Exercise 2: Multiple Choice
Directions: Choose the correct word (“help” or “hinder”) to complete the sentence.
- The traffic jam will __________ our arrival time.
- a) help
- b) hinder
- a) help
- b) hinder
- a) help
- b) hinder
Answer Key:
- b) hinder
- a) help
- a) help
Exercise 3: Sentence Completion
Directions: Complete the sentence with the correct form of “help” or “hinder.”
- The new software program will __________ our productivity.
- His lack of experience may __________ his chances of getting the job.
- Can you __________ me with this math problem?
- Her positive attitude always __________ the team.
- The heavy rain __________ our outdoor plans.
Answer Key:
- help
- hinder
- help
- helps
- hindered
Conclusion
After reading this article, it is clear that understanding the difference between help and hinder is crucial for effective communication. The usage of these two words can have a significant impact on the tone and meaning of a sentence.
Key Takeaways
- The word “help” denotes a positive impact, while “hinder” implies a negative impact.
- Using “help” and “hinder” correctly can enhance the clarity and effectiveness of communication.
- Context is key when deciding whether to use “help” or “hinder.”
- Grammar and language use are essential for effective communication, and it is important to continue learning and improving in these areas.
It is crucial to understand the nuances of language and grammar to communicate effectively. By using the correct words in the appropriate context, we can convey our message clearly and avoid confusion. Continued learning and improvement in these areas can only benefit our communication skills and enhance our ability to connect with others.
Shawn Manaher is the founder and CEO of The Content Authority. He’s one part content manager, one part writing ninja organizer, and two parts leader of top content creators. You don’t even want to know what he calls pancakes.