When it comes to the correct spelling of “helpful,” there is no room for debate. The correct form is indeed “helpful,” spelling it with just one “l.” The word “helpful” is an adjective derived from the noun “help” and is widely used in the English language to describe someone or something that is of assistance or provides support.
To illustrate this, let’s consider a few examples. Imagine you are struggling with your English homework, and your friend offers to explain a particularly difficult grammar rule to you. In this case, your friend is being helpful by lending a hand and aiding in your understanding.
Another example can be seen in the context of customer service. When you visit a store, the staff’s job is to ensure that your shopping experience is smooth and enjoyable. If the employees are polite, knowledgeable, and attentive to your needs, you would undoubtedly consider their assistance helpful.
Both of these examples demonstrate the correct usage of “helpful.” However, it is worth noting that “helpful” can also be used to describe non-living things. For instance, a well-written guidebook can be described as helpful because it provides clear instructions and explanations.
On the other hand, the spelling “helpfull” with two “l’s” is incorrect and not recognized in standard English. This erroneous variant is a common misspelling that often occurs due to confusion with other similar words such as “full” or “pull.”
To help exemplify this, let’s take a look at some sentences containing the incorrect spelling “helpfull”:
1. The teacher’s feedback was very helpfull in improving my essay.
2. I find the online resources I discovered to be extremely helpfull for my research.
3. Our group received support and suggestions from a helpfull expert in the field.
In these sentences, the incorrect spelling “helpfull” stands out as a glaring error, hindering the clarity and professionalism of the overall text. It is crucial to remember that as an IELTS tutor, maintaining proper spelling and grammar is essential for achieving a high score in the exam.
In conclusion, “helpful” is the correct spelling of the adjective used to describe someone or something that provides assistance or support. The incorrect spelling “helpfull” should be avoided as it is not recognized in standard English. By using the correct spelling, we ensure clear communication and maintain the integrity of our written and spoken language. So, let’s always strive to be helpful, not helpfull, in our use of language.