What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of the verb tetsudau (to help) in its potential form tetsudaeru (can help) plus the polite suffix masu.
Which one should you use?
While 手伝え ます is the standard way to offer assistance, you might use other forms depending on the level of politeness required. For example, 助けることができます is a polite way to say "I can help" and お手伝いできます is a polite way to say "I can be of assistance".
Is there a formal and an informal way to say it?
The form 手伝え ます is polite and suitable for use with colleagues, acquaintances or superiors. For more casual situations, you can use 手伝えるよ to express a friendly willingness to help or 手伝える which is the informal dictionary form used with friends or family. Among friends, you might also hear the casual expression 俺（おれ）が手伝うよ, where 俺 is an informal pronoun meaning "I".
Is it said differently in some regions?
In the Hakata dialect of the Kyushu region, the phrase 手伝ったるで is used to mean "I can help".
How does it change in a sentence?
The potential form tetsudaeru is used to express the ability or possibility to provide assistance.
How do you pronounce it?
tetsudaemasu
Did you know?
- The verb 手伝う (tetsudau) literally combines the characters for 'hand' and 'to move', suggesting the physical act of lending a hand.
- The polite suffix ます actually has humble origins. It is believed to have evolved from the verb 参る (mairu), which was used to describe one's own actions when speaking to a social superior.
- While 手伝う (tetsudau) describes helping with a task, Japanese uses a different verb, 助ける (tasukeru), for helping someone in danger or rescue situations.
Examples in context
- 若い人々の手助けをすることができます。I can help young people.
- お手伝いできますか？Can I help you?
- お力になれることがありましたら、どうぞおっしゃってください。If there is anything I can do to help, please let me know.
- 何か手伝えることありますか？Is there anything I can help you with?
- 俺が手伝うよ、大丈夫。I'll help you, don't worry.
Example conversation
Hiyori sees Hiroto struggling with heavy boxes.
- 陽葵 Himari大翔さん、手伝え ますか？Hiroto-san, tetsudae masu ka?Hiroto, can I help you?
- 大翔 Hiroto本当？助かるよ。Hontou? Tasukaru yo.Really? That would be a great help.
- 陽葵 Himariこの箱を持って行きますね。Kono hako o motte ikimasu ne.I'll take this box for you.
- 大翔 Hirotoありがとう、陽葵さん。Arigatou, Hiyori-san.Thank you, Hiyori.
Sources
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries ます, CC BY-SA 4.0.
