What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
helping
Example
Can I have another helping of mashed potatoes? [helping: noun]
Example
I need your help with this heavy box. [help: verb]
Example
Thanks for your helping hand in organizing the event. [helping: gerund or present participle]
portion
Example
I only want a small portion of cake, please. [portion: noun]
Example
Let's portion out the snacks evenly among everyone. [portion: verb]
Example
This portion of the report focuses on the financial analysis. [portion: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Portion is more commonly used than helping in everyday language. Portion is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while helping is less common and primarily used in the context of food or providing assistance.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between helping and portion?
Both helping and portion are relatively neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
