Support Each Other: Meaning, Usage & Examples

Meaning 1：mutual help (support each other)

support each other 🔊

/səˈpɔːrt iːtʃ ˈʌðər/

v. phr.

To help and encourage one another; to be there for someone and have them be there for you in return.

Two people climbing a hill together, supporting each other under sunset

mutual help 🔊

➕

/ˈmjuːtʃuəl hɛlp/

v. phr.

To provide assistance or encouragement to one another, often in times of need.

📁 Category：Behaviors & Actions 🔖 Level：Intermediate

📘 Details & Usage

📖 Root Explanation

Support from Latin supportare (sub- + portare 'to carry'); 'each other' denotes reciprocity.

💡 Mnemonic

Think of two pillars leaning on each other – they both stand stronger.

📖 Example

Even though their family faced financial difficulties, they always supported each other with encouraging words and by taking on part-time jobs. 🔊 In spite of monetary troubles, they provided mutual encouragement and financial support through words and side jobs.

🔗 Collocations

support each other emotionally – offer emotional support to one another

support each other financially – provide monetary assistance to each other

support each other's goals – help one another achieve personal objectives

🔄 Synonyms

back each other up (v. phr.) – to provide support or assistance to someone, especially in a challenging situation

be there for one another (v. phr.) – to be available to help or comfort each other

stand by each other (v. phr.) – to remain loyal and supportive to one another

🚫 Antonyms

undermine each other (v. phr.) – to weaken or damage each other's efforts or confidence

compete against each other (v. phr.) – to try to outdo or defeat one another

ignore each other (v. phr.) – to deliberately pay no attention to one another

📖 Cultural Story

The phrase 'support each other' reflects a universal value of cooperation. Commonly used in English to encourage teamwork, family solidarity, and community resilience.