support the family

/səˈpɔːrt ðə ˈfæməli/
phraseIntermediate
informal

to provide financial or emotional support to one's family members

She took a second job to better support the family.

She found additional work to improve her family's financial situation.

After his father passed away, he had to support the family alone.

He became the sole provider for his family after his father died.

💡

This phrase often refers to financial support but can also include emotional and practical support.

Collocations

financially support the familyprovide money for the familyemotionally support the familyoffer comfort and care to the family

Synonyms

Antonyms

Related Phrases

breadwinnerphrase
the main person who provides financial support for a family
family providerphrase
someone who supports their family financially

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

This phrase is often used in contexts discussing work, finances, or family responsibilities.

Gold Rule

Context Matters

The phrase can refer to financial, emotional, or practical support, so pay attention to the context.

📖Word Origin

The phrase combines the verb 'support' (from Old French 'sustener') and the noun 'family' (from Latin 'familia').

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is commonly used to describe the responsibility of providing for one's family, often in financial terms but also in emotional and practical ways.

Word Breakdown

support
to provide help or assistance
verb
+
the family
one's relatives or household
noun phrase
English Dictionary