support

/səˈpɔːrt/
verbnounBeginner
general

to give assistance or approval to someone or something

She supports her friends during tough times.

She helps and encourages them when they are struggling.

The company supports renewable energy initiatives.

The company approves of and helps fund these projects.

💡

Can be used for physical, emotional, or financial assistance.

general

to bear the weight of something

The pillars support the roof of the building.

The pillars hold up the roof.

💡

Used in a physical or structural sense.

general

to provide evidence or justification for something

The data supports the theory.

The data provides evidence for the theory.

💡

Used in an intellectual or logical sense.

Collocations

support someoneto help or encourage someonesupport a causeto advocate for or contribute to a causesupport a familyto provide financially for a familysupport a viewto agree with or defend a viewpoint

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

support groupphrase
a group of people who provide mutual assistance and encouragement
support systemphrase
a network of people or resources that provide help and encouragement
support staffphrase
employees who assist with administrative or technical tasks

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

Use 'support' when referring to helping someone or something, whether emotionally, financially, or structurally.

Gold Rule

Verb vs. Noun

'Support' can be both a verb (to help) and a noun (assistance). Ensure the context matches the intended meaning.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'supporten', from Old French 'soustenir', from Latin 'sustinere' (to hold up, endure), from 'sub-' (under) + 'tenere' (to hold).

📝Usage Notes

Can be used as a verb or noun. As a noun, it can refer to assistance, approval, or a structure that holds something up.

Word Breakdown

sup-
under
prefix
+
-port
to carry or hold
root
English Dictionary