help
verb (used with object)
to give or provide what is necessary to accomplish a task or satisfy a need; contribute strength or means to; render assistance to; cooperate effectively with; aid; assist.
were helping
-
past progressiveof help.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
“I was worried about getting a crazy neighbor, but you seem great,” she added, hugging me tightly and handing me a tray of sandwiches to share with my friends who were helping with the move.
From Los Angeles Times ● Aug. 6, 2026
Rollins, in a social-media post this week, pointed to a drop in new screwworm cases in July as a sign that containment and the sterile-fly efforts were helping contain the outbreak.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 28, 2026
Grant Watson, who works aboard a Bridlington-based fishing boat, said the redesigned pots were helping ensure a "stronger future" for the shellfish industry by minimising its impact.
From BBC ● Jun. 18, 2026
International Monetary Fund Managing Director Kristalina Georgieva said in April that improvements in energy efficiency were helping to mitigate the shock from the Iran war.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 17, 2026
“We got it wrong, though, Pan. We got it all wrong about Roger. We thought we were helping him...’’She choked, and kissed Roger’s still face clumsily, several times.
From "The Golden Compass" by Philip Pullman
