What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
helplessness
Example
She felt a sense of helplessness as she watched the fire consume her home. [helplessness: noun]
Example
The child's illness left him in a state of helplessness, relying on his parents for care. [helplessness: noun]
powerlessness
Example
The citizens felt a sense of powerlessness against the corrupt government. [powerlessness: noun]
Example
The company's financial troubles left the CEO in a state of powerlessness to prevent layoffs. [powerlessness: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Powerlessness is more commonly used than helplessness in everyday language. Powerlessness is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while helplessness is less common and tends to be used in emotional or psychological contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between helplessness and powerlessness?
Both helplessness and powerlessness are neutral in terms of formality and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
