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Anonymous Posted 14 years ago
Grammar

I need 'a' help

Hi, I have a non-native pen pal who uses "I need a help" when asking for assistance. I don't know English grammar well enough to explain why that sentence is wrong - I just know it is. Could you point me in the right direction, please?
  

Top answer

'Help' is a non-count noun, so no indefinite article. Your pal's error is a common one for learners. It may be because of confusion between 'help' and 'hand'.

— Mister Micawber

  • 'Help' is a non-count noun, so no indefinite article.
  • Your pal's error is a common one for learners.
  • It may be because of confusion between 'help' and 'hand'.
  • These mean the same: I need help.
  • I need a hand.
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3 Answers
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'Help' is a non-count noun, so no indefinite article. Your pal's error is a common one for learners. It may be because of confusion between 'help' and 'hand'. These mean the same:

I need help.
I need a hand.
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The same thing happens with "advice."

I need some advices or I need an advice. Both are wrong - I need advice, or some advice, or a lot of advice.
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Hi,

Help can also be thought of as a singular noun, as in:

"Your suggestion was a big help."

"You are more of a hindrance than a help."

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