A2verb1K

Support

UK /["/səˈpɔːt/","/səˈpɔːts/","/səˈpɔːtɪd/","/səˈpɔːtɪŋ/"]/US /["/səˈpɔːrt/","/səˈpɔːrts/","/səˈpɔːrtɪd/","/səˈpɔːrtɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to help or encourage somebody/something by saying or showing that you agree with them/it

In simple words: To give help or assistance.

Examples

  • I want to support my friends in their endeavors.
  • The teacher will support us with extra classes for the exam.
  • This pillar is built to support the roof of the house.
  • Many organizations work to support animal rights.
  • The bridge was designed to support heavy vehicles.
  • I fully support your decision to move abroad.
  • You can rely on me to support you during tough times.
  • Parents should support their children’s education.
  • The organization aims to support community development.
  • We need strong evidence to support our claims.

Usage notes

This word can be used in many contexts like emotional support, financial help, or supporting a cause. It's appropriate in both casual and formal contexts.

Grammar pattern

support + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'support beam' that holds up a structure.

Collocations

  • overwhelmingly
  • fervently
  • fully
  • agree to
  • pledge to
  • promise to
  • in
  • be well supported
  • be widely supported
  • support and encourage somebody/​something
  • overwhelmingly
  • fervently
  • fully
  • agree to
  • pledge to
  • promise to
  • in
  • be well supported
  • be widely supported
  • support and encourage somebody/​something
  • financially
  • generously
  • partially
  • help (to)
  • through
  • financially
  • generously
  • partially
  • help (to)
  • through
  • strongly
  • weakly
  • adequately
  • appear to
  • seem to
  • tend to
  • be supported by data
  • be supported by evidence
  • be well supported

Synonyms

  • sponsor
  • corroborate

Antonyms

  • oppose
  • hinder
  • neglect

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'supplement', which means to add to something.
  • Using 'support' as a noun without clarification (e.g. 'She gave support' is vague).
  • Mixing up 'support' and 'oppose'.