助っ人
Meanings
1
General term for a person who helps out, often in an informal or temporary capacity. Can be used in work, sports, or daily life.
I asked someone to help with the move.
He is a reliable helper for the team.
2
foreign player hired to strengthen a team
Specifically used in sports contexts for a foreign player brought in to boost a team's performance. Often seen in baseball, soccer, etc.
The new foreign player hit a home run.
Usage patterns
- 〈人〉に助っ人を頼むto ask someone to come help out
Since we were short-handed, I asked a friend to come help out.
- 助っ人として活躍するto play an active role as a hired reinforcement (esp. a foreign player)
He performed well as the team's foreign reinforcement.
- 助っ人が来るfor a helper/reinforcement to arrive
We suddenly ran short-staffed, and someone rushed in to help.
- 助っ人を呼ぶto call in a helper/reinforcement
On moving day, I called in some help to lend a hand.