C1verb2K

Uphold

UK /["/ʌpˈhəʊld/","/ʌpˈhəʊldz/","/ʌpˈheld/","/ʌpˈhəʊldɪŋ/"]/US /["/ʌpˈhəʊld/","/ʌpˈhəʊldz/","/ʌpˈheld/","/ʌpˈhəʊldɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to support something that you think is right and make sure that it continues to exist

In simple words: To support or maintain something.

Examples

We have a duty to uphold the law.
The regime has been criticized for failing to uphold human rights.
We are determined to uphold the law.
to **uphold a conviction/an appeal/a complaint**
Three judges unanimously upheld the sentence.
The Press Council refused to uphold the complaint.
The conviction was upheld by the Court of Appeal.

Usage notes

Often used in legal and ethical contexts, such as 'upholding the law' or 'upholding values'. It's appropriate in both formal and neutral settings but less common in casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

uphold + object

Memory hint

Think of 'up' in 'uphold' as lifting something up to keep it high.

Collocations

consistently
firmly
rigorously
have a duty to
be determined to
seek to
consistently
firmly
rigorously
have a duty to
be determined to
seek to

Synonyms

maintain
support
defend
sustain
advocate

Antonyms

disregard
abandon
violate

Common mistakes

Confused with 'support' which can be more casual.
Using it incorrectly in passive voice, e.g. 'The law is upheld by.'
Mixing up the past tense; 'upholded' is incorrect.