Sustain: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when talking about keeping something going over time, particularly in terms of energy, resources, or effort.

• She managed to sustain her energy throughout the marathon
• The company aims to sustain its growth over the next five years

Used when referring to keeping something at a certain level or condition, often through regular care or effort.

• He maintains his car meticulously
• She tries to maintain a positive attitude despite the challenges

Used when referring to helping or holding something up, whether physically, emotionally, or financially.

• She supports her family with her income
• The beams support the structure of the house

Used when referring to maintaining something, such as a law, tradition, or standard, often with a sense of responsibility or duty.

• The judge vowed to uphold the constitution
• They strive to uphold family traditions during the holidays

This word is often used when talking about keeping something going over time, especially under challenging conditions. It can refer to physical support, like sustaining life, or more abstract forms, like sustaining an argument or effort.

• Many charities work to sustain the well-being of disadvantaged communities.
• He was able to sustain his argument despite strong opposition.
• The pillars sustain the weight of the building.

Use 'provide' when talking about making something available or supplying a need. It's a general term that can be used in a wide range of contexts, from giving information to supplying resources.

• The company provides healthcare benefits to its employees.
• Can you provide more details about the project?
• They provide food and shelter to the homeless.

This word is best used when discussing providing something with the necessary resources for growth or health. It typically refers to physical nourishment but can also apply to emotional or intellectual support.

• The gardener nourishes the plants with compost and water.
• Parents should nourish their children's creativity and curiosity.
• A balanced diet helps nourish the body.

Use this word when talking about keeping something in good condition or at the same level. It often implies regular attention or effort. It's commonly used in contexts like equipment, health, or relationships.

• It's important to maintain your car to ensure it runs smoothly.
• She tries to maintain a positive attitude despite her challenges.
• The company aims to maintain high standards of service.

Use 'sustain' when you need to talk about keeping something going over a period of time, like maintaining a condition, effort, or state. This word is often used in environmental, economic, or health contexts.

• We need to find new ways to sustain our natural resources.
• Her courage helped her sustain through tough times.

Use 'support' in a general context to describe assistance or help given to someone or something. It can be emotional, physical, financial, or moral support.

• He provides emotional support to his friends.
• The charity offers financial support to families in need.

Use 'backing' when referring to support given to someone or something, often financial or moral support, and sometimes implies endorsement.

• The project received strong backing from the board of directors.
• Her proposal had the backing of the entire team.

Use 'aid' when referring to providing help or assistance, often in a more formal context, such as governmental or humanitarian assistance.

• The government sent emergency aid to the flood victims.
• Medical aid was provided to those injured in the accident.