student asking question

Would it sound awkward if I say "save us" instead of "help us?"

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

It might sound a little awkward, but it's not impossible. I'd say "save us" is slightly more dramatic in this case. If they were shouting it to a superhero like Spider-Man, or firefighters, those designated to "save" people, then it would make more sense contextually. But since they're shouting it to ordinary people, "help us" makes sense since they're just asking them to do something. But again, in this instance, the dramatic "save us" would still work since they're in real danger. Ex: The firefighters were able to save everyone in the building last night. Ex: Could you help me get down from the ladder? Ex: Help! I'm stuck in this room. Ex: Save me, Spider-Man!

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