What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
succourless
Example
The refugees were left succourless in the war-torn country. [succourless: adjective]
Example
The injured hiker was succourless in the wilderness until the rescue team arrived. [succourless: adverb]
helpless
Example
The child felt helpless when lost in the crowded mall. [helpless: adjective]
Example
I was helpless to stop the car from crashing into the tree. [helpless: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Helpless is a more common word than succourless and is used in a variety of contexts, from describing a person's emotional state to a situation where someone is unable to act. Succourless is less common and may be considered archaic or formal.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between succourless and helpless?
Succourless is a more formal word than helpless and is often used in literary or historical contexts. Helpless is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
