Support: meaning, definitions and examples

General term for help, often both emotional and practical; commonly used in various contexts including personal, professional, and technical.

• She provided emotional support during a difficult time.
• The project had the full support of the management team.

Refers to emotional or psychological support, usually in the form of words or actions that provide motivation and confidence.

• Her teacher's encouragement helped her believe in herself.
• His words of encouragement were greatly appreciated.

Formal and somewhat technical term for help; often used in official, academic, or service-related contexts.

• She requires assistance with her research.
• Thank you for your assistance in this matter.

Refers to physical help or assistance, often in the form of tangible goods or money; commonly used in humanitarian or medical contexts.

• International aid was sent to the disaster-stricken region.
• Financial aid is available for students who qualify.

Refers to support, often financial or authoritative, provided by individuals or organizations; commonly used in political or business contexts.

• The new candidate received considerable backing from local businesses.
• The startup secured financial backing from several investors.

Appropriate when showing approval or providing comfort. Often used in both emotional and practical contexts.

• I will support your decision no matter what.
• The community supports the local charity projects.

Best used in formal contexts or when providing practical help, often implying aid in completing a task.

• The manager assisted the team with the project.
• The charity assists those in need.

A versatile term appropriate in casual and formal situations when providing general assistance or aid.

• Can you help me with my homework?
• The organization helps people during natural disasters.

Commonly used in informal or casual contexts to show approval or to defend someone or something, sometimes implying risk.

• I will back your plan in tomorrow's meeting.
• Many investors are backing the new startup.

Typically used in formal settings, often implying a public statement of approval or support, especially for products, services, or individuals.

• The celebrity endorsed the new brand of sneakers.
• Several politicians endorse the bill.