Give/lend a helping hand Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Offering Support Used when offering to help someone with a task or problem they're facing. Noticing her struggle with the report, he lent a helping hand. Pro Tip 2/3Voluntary Action Implies that the help is given willingly without expecting something in return. He lent a helping hand at the charity event without being asked. Pro Tip 3/3Momentary Assistance The phrase often suggests a temporary act of assistance, not a long-term commitment. During the event setup, many volunteers gave a helping hand.