Hjelpe

Hjelpe is a Norwegian verb meaning to provide assistance or support. It denotes the act of aiding someone in completing a task, solving a problem, or obtaining something they need. The verb is transitive and typically used with a direct object, or with phrases such as å hjelpe noen med noe (to help someone with something) or å hjelpe til med en oppgave (to help with a task).

Grammatical information: Infinitive form is å hjelpe. Present tense is hjelper; past tense is hjalp; and the past participle is hjulpet. The imperative form is hjelp. In perfect constructions, you commonly see har hjulpet or har blitt hjulpet, meaning “has helped” or “has been helped.” The noun form help or assistance in Norwegian is hjelpen, and related adjectives include hjelpsom (helpful).

Etymology and cognates: Hjelpe originates from Old Norse hjálpa and is cognate with Danish hjælpe and Swedish hjälpa. It is part of a broader Germanic family of words related to helping or aiding. The Norwegian form aligns with contemporary Danish and Swedish counterparts, reflecting a common Nordic heritage.

Usage and context: Hjelpe is used in everyday speech as well as formal and professional contexts. It encompasses voluntary aid, social support, technical or logistical assistance, and humanitarian or charitable work. Common collocations include å hjelpe noen med noe, å hjelpe til med, og å hjelpe til i en krisesituasjon. The concept is central to discussions about cooperation, service, and support networks in Norwegian-speaking communities.