What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
helpfulness
Example
I appreciate your helpfulness in assisting me with my project. [helpfulness: noun]
Example
She showed great helpfulness by offering to babysit for me. [helpfulness: noun]
usefulness
Example
This tool has great usefulness in repairing small electronics. [usefulness: noun]
Example
The information provided in this book is very useful for my research. [useful: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Usefulness is more commonly used than helpfulness in everyday language. Usefulness is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while helpfulness is less common and refers specifically to the act of providing aid or assistance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between helpfulness and usefulness?
Both helpfulness and usefulness can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but usefulness is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both technical and non-technical contexts.
