What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
accommodating
Example
The hotel staff was very accommodating and made sure we had everything we needed. [accommodating: adjective]
Example
She was accommodating to her friend's dietary restrictions and made a special meal for them. [accommodating: gerund or present participle]
helpful
Example
The librarian was very helpful in finding the book I needed. [helpful: adjective]
Example
He offered to help me carry my groceries to the car. [helpful: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Helpful is more commonly used than accommodating in everyday language. Helpful is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while accommodating is less common and often used in specific situations where flexibility or compromise is required.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between accommodating and helpful?
Both accommodating and helpful are generally considered to be informal words, but accommodating may be perceived as slightly more formal due to its association with customer service or hospitality industries.
