AIDER OU ASSISTER ? How to say “ TO HELP ” in French ? Want to ask someone for help? Say “Tu peux m’aider ?” - AIDER is the usual verb for everyday help. “J’aide mon amie à préparer son entretien.” I’m helping my friend prepare for her interview. Notice the structure: aider quelqu’un à + verb. - ASSISTER quelqu’un can also mean to help or to assist, often in a professional context. “L’avocat assiste son client.” The lawyer assists his client. But watch out for ASSISTER À: it means to attend, not to help! “J’assiste à un cours de français avec Virginie.” I’m attending a French lesson with Virginie. “J’aide ma prof de français.” I’m helping my French teacher. Your turn: how would you say “Can you help me understand this word?