Help Idioms

stepping stones

Meaning: Something that helps achieve a goal or reach a higher position in life or career.

Example: His first job was just a set of stepping stones toward becoming a CEO. Read more ➺

high and dry

Meaning: Used to describe situations where someone is left stranded or abandoned without assistance.

Example: After the company declared bankruptcy, employees were high and dry without severance pay. Read more ➺

pull someone up

Meaning: addressing someone's behavior or performance to correct it.

Example: The coach pulled the player up for missing practice and emphasized the importance of commitment. Read more ➺

come in handy

Meaning: to be useful or convenient, especially at some future time.

Example: The extra money will come in handy when we go on vacation. Read more ➺

lend a hand

Meaning: to assist or help someone particularly voluntarily.

Example: When my friend was moving to his new house, I offered to lend a hand with preparing, packing, and carrying boxes. Read more ➺

in a pinch

Meaning: being in a situation where the preferred or ideal choice is unavailable.

Example: This diet will do in a pinch. It is better than going hungry. Read more ➺

do one’s bit

Meaning: to do a share of a task.

Example: When people can "do their bit", they are helping support a larger cause. Read more ➺

spare someone’s blushes

Meaning: to stop someone from feeling awkward or embarrassed.

Example: My teacher spoke up to spare the blushes of the new student. Read more ➺

under the auspices

Meaning: under the protection, sponsorship, or patronage

Example: We restored the home under the auspices of the historical society. Read more ➺

leg up

Meaning: give or receive assistance to achieve a goal

Example: Completing the summer study program gives pupils a leg up in the following academic year. Read more ➺