助けて — meaning in English: help me

tasukete · Learn this word with quizzes, examples and more on Maspeak.

Guess the translation for help

助けて

tasukete

専門知識

senmon chishiki

判決

hanketsu

池

ike

提供

teikyō

Skip this question

🎓

Learn Japanese for free

Quizzes, examples, audio & daily challenges. No password needed — just your email.

Start learning →

Already have an account? Log in

informal very common

Usage

Native speakers often use 助けて (tasukete) in urgent situations where immediate help is needed, such as during an emergency or when feeling threatened. For example, someone might shout this phrase if they are in danger or need assistance in a crowded place, like a train station.

Synonyms & nuances

A close synonym is 助けを求める (tasuke o motomeru), which means 'to seek help.' While 助けて (tasukete) is a direct plea for help, 助けを求める is more formal and suggests a request for assistance that might be planned rather than immediate.

Culture

The word 助けて (tasukete) comes from the verb 助ける (tasukeru), meaning 'to help' or 'to save.' In Japanese culture, asking for help is often seen as a sign of vulnerability, but it is also acknowledged as a necessary part of community life, reflecting the importance of interdependence among people.

FAQ

Q.How do you pronounce 助けて?

助けて is pronounced as 'tasukete.' The pronunciation emphasizes the 'ta' and 'ke' syllables, with a light stress on the second syllable.

Q.Can I use 助けて in a casual conversation?

While 助けて is informal and used during emergencies, it might come off as dramatic in casual conversation. For everyday help, phrases like 手伝って (tetsudatte) which means 'help me with this' are more appropriate.

Q.When should I use 助けて versus other help phrases?

Use 助けて when you need urgent help, especially in dire situations. For less critical assistance, consider using phrases like 手伝って (tetsudatte) or 助けてください (tasukete kudasai) for a more polite request.

Learn japanese with Maspeak →

Japanese 2000