ayudarle
“ayudarle” means “to help him” in Spanish (masculine singular recipient).
to help him, to help her, to help you (formal singular)
Also: to give assistance to him/her
📝 In Action
Mi abuelo no puede caminar bien; tengo que ir a **ayudarle**.
A1My grandfather can't walk well; I have to go help him.
Si necesitas **ayudarle** a tu jefa, avísame.
A2If you need to help your boss (her), let me know.
Señor García, estoy aquí para **ayudarle** con su maleta.
A1Mr. García, I am here to help you (formal) with your suitcase.
🔄 Conjugations
indicative
present
imperfect
preterite
subjunctive
present
imperfect
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: ayudarle
Question 1 of 2
Which English phrase is NOT a possible translation for 'ayudarle'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
🎵 Rhymes▼
📚 Etymology▼
The verb *ayudar* comes from the Latin word *adiutare*, meaning 'to assist' or 'to give aid.' The attached *le* comes from the Latin word *illi*, meaning 'to him' or 'to her.' The combination has been used for centuries.
First recorded: c. 13th century (in similar form)
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it 'ayudarle' and not 'ayudarlo'?
'Ayudarle' uses *le* because the person receiving the help is considered the recipient of the action (the indirect object). While 'ayudarlo' (using *lo*) technically means 'to help it' or 'to help him' (direct object), Spanish speakers almost always use *le* when the recipient is a person, which is known as 'leísmo de cortesía' or simply standard usage for this verb.
Does 'ayudarle' always refer to one person?
Yes. The *le* refers to a single recipient: him, her, or a formal 'you' (Usted). If you wanted to help several people (them), you would use the plural form: *ayudarles*.