supportive
providing encouragement or helpHer supportive friends helped her through the difficult time.
Her friends provided emotional and practical help during a tough period.
Providing encouragement, help, or approval to someone or something
The teacher was very supportive of her students' creative ideas.
The teacher encouraged and approved of her students' creative ideas.
A supportive family environment helps children develop confidence.
A family that provides encouragement and help fosters children's confidence.
Often used to describe people, environments, or systems that provide assistance or encouragement.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Common Usage
Use 'supportive' to describe people or environments that provide help or encouragement, not just physical support.
Gold Rule
Avoid Overuse
'Supportive' is often overused in formal contexts. Use synonyms like 'encouraging' or 'helpful' for variety.
Word Origin
From Middle English 'supportif', from Old French 'supporter' (to support), from Latin 'supportare' (to bear up).
Usage Notes
Can describe people, environments, or systems that provide assistance or encouragement. Often used in contexts like education, healthcare, or personal relationships.