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Support: Meanings, Examples, and Usage Guide (2 meaning)

Meaning 1:hold up (support)

support 🔊
/səˈpɔːrt/
v./n.
To hold something up so it doesn't fall down.
Support meaning hold up: bookshelf brackets bearing weight
hold up 🔊
/hoʊld ʌp/
v./n.
To physically bear the weight of something, preventing it from falling or collapsing.
📁 Category:Buildings & Places 🔖 Level:Beginner

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'supportare': sub- 'under' + portare 'to carry'.
💡 Mnemonic
Imagine 'sub' (under) carrying a 'port' (harbor) — support keeps things afloat!
📖 Example
These strong pillars support the weight of the entire ancient bridge. 🔊 The robust pillars sustain the total weight of the historic bridge.
🔗 Collocations
support beam – A beam that bears weight from above.
load-bearing support – A structural element that carries a significant load.
support system – A set of components providing stability.
🔄 Synonyms
hold up (v.) – To bear the weight of something, keeping it from falling.
prop up (v.) – To physically support from below, often temporarily.
reinforce (v.) – To strengthen or support with additional material.
🚫 Antonyms
undermine (v.) – To weaken the foundation or support of something.
collapse (v.) – To fall down or give way under pressure.
weaken (v.) – To make less sturdy or stable.
🌱 Derivatives
supportive (adj.) – Providing physical or emotional support.
supporter (n.) – A person who provides support, often structural or emotional.
unsupported (adj.) – Lacking physical or moral backing.
📖 Cultural Story
Derived from Latin 'supportare' ('sub', under + 'portare', to carry), it entered English via Old French. In modern usage, 'support' signifies both physical bearing and emotional assistance, as in 'technical support'.

Meaning 2:encourage (support)

support 🔊
/səˈpɔːrt/
v./n.
To help someone by encouraging them or helping them do something.
Support meaning encourage: hand on shoulder comforting friend
encourage 🔊
/ɪnˈkɜːrɪdʒ/
v./n.
To give emotional or moral assistance to someone, motivating them or showing solidarity.
📁 Category:Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level:Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Example
My friends came to support me by cheering at my first marathon, which gave me so much energy. 🔊 My buddies cheered for me during my first marathon, boosting my energy.
🔗 Collocations
emotional support – Help that provides comfort and reassurance in difficult times.
peer support – Mutual encouragement among people sharing similar experiences.
support group – A gathering where members share encouragement and advice.
🔄 Synonyms
encourage (v.) – To give hope, confidence, or motivation to someone.
back up (v.) – To provide support or confirmation to someone's efforts.
stand by (v.) – To remain loyal and supportive, especially during challenges.
🚫 Antonyms
discourage (v.) – To cause someone to lose confidence or enthusiasm.
oppose (v.) – To act against someone's plans or ideas.
hinder (v.) – To create obstacles or make progress difficult.
🌱 Derivatives
supportive (adj.) – Providing encouragement or emotional backing.
supporter (n.) – A person who backs or advocates for someone.
unsupported (adj.) – Lacking encouragement or backing.
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