Lend a hand

Meaning

The idiom "lend a hand" means to help someone, usually by doing something for them or giving them something they need. It can be used to offer assistance, provide support, or contribute to a project or task.

Usage

• When my friend was in trouble with her boss at work, I decided to lend a hand and write a recommendation letter for her.
• My coworkers were struggling with their project, so I lent a hand by offering some tips on how to organize their tasks more efficiently.
• When my neighbor's car broke down, I lent a hand by offering to drive them to work until they could fix their car.
• My friend was trying to start her own business and was short on funds, so I decided to lend a hand and invest some money in her venture.
• The community came together to lend a hand during the natural disaster, by donating food, water, and supplies to those affected.

Roots and History

The idiom "lend a hand" has been used in English since at least the 16th century. It originated from the phrase "a helping hand," which was used to describe someone who was willing to help or support someone else. Over time, the phrase evolved into the current form of "lend a hand."

Synonyms in English

• Offer assistance
• Provide support
• Contribute to a task
• Help out
• Lend an ear

Synonyms in other languages

• French: aider
• Spanish: ayudar
• German: helfen
• Italian: aiutare
• Chinese: 證人（辅助） (yǐng rén)

Similar Idioms

• do one’s bit

• labour of love

• scratch back