SpeeekDownload on the App Store
Back to Asking For Help

German Phrase

Ich kann dir bei dieser Aufgabe helfen.

/ɪç kan diːɐ̯ baɪ̯ ˈdiːzɐ ˈaʊ̯fˌɡaːbə ˈhɛlfn̩/
Meaning"I can help you with this task."
💡

Meaning

This sentence expresses a direct and helpful offer to assist someone with a specific piece of work or a problem. It uses the modal verb 'können' to show capability and the preposition 'bei' to specify the context of the assistance.

🎯

When to use

This is perfect for professional settings, school environments, or casual situations where you see someone struggling with a specific job, homework, or chore.

✦Grammar Breakdown

IchkanndirbeidieserAufgabehelfen

1

Modal Verb Position

The modal verb 'kann' sits in the second position, while the infinitive 'helfen' is pushed to the very end of the sentence.

2

Dative Case

The pronoun 'dir' and the phrase 'dieser Aufgabe' are both in the dative case, triggered by 'helfen' and the preposition 'bei'.

🗨In Conversation

A

Diese Hausaufgabe ist wirklich schwierig.

This homework is really difficult.

Ich kann dir bei dieser Aufgabe helfen.

I can help you with this task.

B

✕Common Mistakes

  • Ich kann dich bei dieser Aufgabe helfen.

    The verb 'helfen' always takes the dative case, so 'dir' is required instead of the accusative 'dich'.

  • Ich kann dir mit dieser Aufgabe helfen.

    While 'mit' is common in English, German speakers typically use the preposition 'bei' when helping with a specific activity or task.

↔Alternatives

  • Soll ich dir helfen?

    Should I help you?

  • Ich unterstütze dich gerne dabei.

    I am happy to support you with that.

de

Cultural Tip

In German culture, offering specific help is often more appreciated than a general offer. By naming the 'Aufgabe' (task), you show that you are paying attention to exactly what the person is working on.