What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
helplessly
Example
The child looked up at his mother helplessly, unable to solve the math problem. [helplessly: adverb]
Example
She felt helplessly lost in the unfamiliar city. [helplessly: adverb]
powerlessly
Example
The citizens protested powerlessly against the government's decision. [powerlessly: adverb]
Example
He watched powerlessly as the car drove away with his stolen belongings. [powerlessly: adverb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Helplessly is more common than powerlessly in everyday language.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between helplessly and powerlessly?
Powerlessly may be more formal than helplessly due to its less frequent usage and its ability to function as both an adverb and an adjective.
