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Sustained: meaning, definitions and examples

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sustained

 

[ səˈsteɪnd ]

Adjective / Verb / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

long-lasting

Continuing for an extended period of time without interruption or weakening. Consistent and steady in performance or effect.

Synonyms

continuous, persistent, prolonged.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sustained

Used to describe something that is maintained at a certain level without interruption over a period of time. Often used in more formal or technical contexts.

  • The project achieved sustained success for over a decade
  • The athlete maintained a sustained effort throughout the marathon
continuous

Refers to something unbroken, without any interruptions or stops. Commonly used to describe processes or actions.

  • The machine operated in continuous mode for 24 hours
  • There was continuous rain throughout the night
prolonged

Indicates an extended duration of time, usually longer than expected or usual, often with a negative connotation.

  • The meeting was prolonged due to several heated discussions
  • He suffered from prolonged pain after the surgery
persistent

Describes something that continues to exist or happen, especially when it is unwelcome or tiresome. It can have a slightly negative connotation.

  • She had a persistent cough for weeks
  • The dog was persistent in its efforts to get the ball

Examples of usage

  • She showed sustained improvement in her grades throughout the school year.
  • The team's sustained effort paid off with a championship win.
Context #2 | Verb

legal

Upholding or affirming a decision or verdict on appeal. To maintain or support the validity of.

Synonyms

confirm, maintain, uphold.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sustained

Use in contexts where something continues for a long period without interruption or weakening. Often seen in formal and technical contexts.

  • The team sustained their effort throughout the project
  • The company has seen sustained growth over the past decade
uphold

Use in contexts where something is being supported, especially principles or regulations. Often seen in formal or legal settings and can imply strong commitment.

  • The judge upheld the original decision
  • We must uphold the values of our community
confirm

Use when stating that something is definitely true or when verifying information. Commonly used in both formal and informal settings.

  • We need to confirm the reservation before our trip
  • She confirmed that the meeting will take place at noon
maintain

Use in contexts where something is being kept in a particular condition or state over time, often implying regular effort. Frequently used in both personal and professional settings.

  • He tries to maintain a healthy lifestyle
  • The company has to maintain its equipment regularly

Examples of usage

  • The court sustained the objection raised by the defense attorney.
  • The judge sustained the jury's verdict and dismissed the case.
Context #3 | Noun

music

A prolonged musical tone or chord. A note or series of notes held or repeated in a composition.

Synonyms

continuous sound, prolonged tone, sustained pitch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
sustained

Used to describe something that is kept going for a long time without interruption.

  • The athlete maintained a sustained pace throughout the marathon
continuous sound

Refers to a sound that goes on without stopping.

  • The continuous sound of the river was soothing
prolonged tone

Used when a sound or note is deliberately extended beyond its usual length.

  • The musician played a prolonged tone on the violin, emphasizing the sadness of the piece
sustained pitch

Describes a musical note held at a constant level for a long time.

  • The singer's sustained pitch impressed the judges during the audition

Examples of usage

  • The violinist played a sustained note that resonated throughout the concert hall.
  • The sustained chords created a sense of tension in the musical piece.

Translations

Translations of the word "sustained" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sustentado

🇮🇳 निरंतर

🇩🇪 anhalten

🇮🇩 berkelanjutan

🇺🇦 тривалий

🇵🇱 utrzymany

🇯🇵 持続的

🇫🇷 soutenu

🇪🇸 sostenido

🇹🇷 sürekli

🇰🇷 지속적인

🇸🇦 مستمر

🇨🇿 trvalý

🇸🇰 udržateľný

🇨🇳 持续的

🇸🇮 vzdržljiv

🇮🇸 viðvarandi

🇰🇿 тұрақты

🇬🇪 მუდმივი

🇦🇿 dayanıqlı

🇲🇽 sostenido

Etymology

The word 'sustained' originated from the Latin word 'sustinere', which means 'to hold up' or 'to support'. It first appeared in the English language in the mid-15th century. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various meanings, from the continuous support of an idea or argument to the long-lasting effect of a particular action. The concept of sustainability and endurance is often associated with the word 'sustained', highlighting the importance of consistency and resilience in different contexts.

See also: sustain, sustainability, sustainable, sustainably, sustaining, sustainment, sustenance, unsustainability, unsustainable.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #2,510, this word belongs to solid intermediate vocabulary. It's frequently used in both casual and formal contexts and is worth learning for better fluency.