What is support? Pronunciation and usage in English

support means . Learn how to pronounce and use support through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of support

supportverb/noun

/səˈpɔːt/
Definition & pronunciation of support

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "support" in English. There are a couple of common pronunciations, and they’re both considered correct!

1. The Most Common Pronunciation (American English):

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /səˈpɔːrt/

  • Breakdown:

    • sə: This is a very short, unstressed "suh" sound. Think of it as almost silent.
    • ˈpɔːrt: This is the stressed syllable.
      • pɔː: Pronounce this with a broad “ah” sound, like in "father." It's a longer vowel sound.
      • rt: A short "r" sound.

  • How it sounds: It's often described as sounding a bit like "suh-PORT" but with more emphasis on the "port" part.

2. The British English Pronunciation:

  • IPA: /səˈpɔːt/ (very similar to American, but with subtle differences)
  • Breakdown: Very similar to the American version.
  • How it sounds: Slightly less emphasis on the “ah” sound – more like "suh-port."

Tips for Getting it Right:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Give you a more detailed explanation of a specific part of the sound?

Usage and examples with the word support in English

Let's break down how to use the word "support" in English. It's a hugely versatile word with many different meanings! Here's a categorized breakdown with examples:

1. Providing Assistance (Most Common)

  • Meaning: To give help, encouragement, or resources to someone or something.
  • Examples:
    • "I support my family financially." (Providing money)
    • "She supports her local sports team." (Cheering them on, buying merchandise)
    • "He supports his friend when they’re going through a difficult time." (Offering emotional help)
    • "The charity supports homeless people." (Providing food, shelter, etc.)
    • "I support your decision." (Offering encouragement and backing your choice)

2. Physical Stability & Bearing Weight

  • Meaning: To hold something up or prevent it from falling.
  • Examples:
    • "The table needs support." (Means it’s wobbly and needs something to keep it stable)
    • "The bridge supports heavy traffic." (The structure holds the weight)
    • "The column supports the roof." (The column is a structural element)

3. Legal & Political (Backing an Idea or Candidate)

  • Meaning: To publicly endorse or advocate for something – a cause, a policy, a person.
  • Examples:
    • "I support universal healthcare." (I believe it’s a good idea and want it implemented)
    • "She supports the local candidate for mayor." (She is campaigning for them or donating to their campaign)
    • “He supports the rights of LGBTQ+ individuals.” (He advocates for these rights)

4. In Groups & Teams (Contributing)

  • Meaning: To be part of a group working toward a common goal; to contribute to a team's success.
  • Examples:
    • "The team is really supporting each other." (They are helping and encouraging each other)
    • "I support the project’s timeline.” (I agree with the schedule and will help it move forward)

5. Biological (Growth & Development)

  • Meaning: To nourish or enable growth. (Often used in gardening or with plants).
  • Examples:
    • "Fertilizer supports plant growth." (Provides nutrients)
    • "The roots support the tree." (Anchors the tree and provides stability)

6. As a Verb (To be in agreement or have a positive view)

  • Meaning: To agree with or believe in something. (Often used informally).
  • Examples:
    • “I support the idea that we should travel more.” (I agree with that idea)
    • “Do you support me in this?” (Do you agree with my plan?)

7. Phrases with "Support"

  • Give support: To help someone. (Example: "She gave him a lot of emotional support.")
  • Seek support: To ask for help. (Example: “I’m seeking support from a therapist.”)
  • Provide support: To offer assistance. (Example: “The organization provides support to refugees.”)
  • Social support: Emotional and practical help from others.

Tips for Using "Support" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "support" changes drastically depending on the situation. Pay attention to the surrounding words.
  • Synonyms: Consider synonyms like help, assist, encourage, endorse, advocate, back, uphold, bolster, strengthen.
  • Formal vs. Informal: "Support" is generally suitable for both formal and informal settings.

To help me give you even more targeted advice, could you tell me:

  • What are you trying to use “support” in a sentence for? (e.g., are you writing an essay, having a conversation, etc.?)
  • Is there a particular context you’re struggling with (e.g., legal support, emotional support, physical support)?

Synonyms for the word support

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