Underpin: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'underpin' when referring to something that forms the foundation or basis for a concept, theory, or physical structure.

• The theory that underpins their research is widely accepted in scientific circles.
• The new regulations are underpinned by recent findings in environmental studies.

Use 'support' when referring to the action of bearing the weight of something, providing assistance, or endorsing a particular idea or person.

• The columns support the roof of the historic building.
• Her family has always supported her career choices.

Use 'strengthen' to speak about the action of making something more robust, durable, or effective, whether it be an object, relationship, or system.

• The exercises are designed to strengthen your core muscles.
• These guidelines will strengthen the company's data security.

Use 'reinforce' when you want to describe the action of making something stronger or more solid, often by adding new material or support.

• The walls were reinforced with steel beams to prevent collapse.
• She used statistics to reinforce her argument.

Used to describe the act of supporting or strengthening a concept, theory, or structure.

• The research findings underpin the new policy initiatives.
• The foundation work included measures to underpin the building.

Used when providing reasons or explanations to defend or prove the correctness of something; often in contexts of arguments or decisions.

• He couldn't justify his absence from the meeting.
• The company sought to justify the high price of its product.

Used to confirm the truth, accuracy, or legitimacy of something, often through testing or verification.

• The results of the experiment will validate the theory.
• We need to validate our findings before publishing them.

Used when providing evidence or proof to support a claim or assertion.

• The lawyer needed more evidence to substantiate the allegations.
• The scientist was able to substantiate her hypothesis with extensive data.