student asking question

Doesn't the words "support" and "back" have pretty much the same meaning? Why would the speaker say the same word simultaneously? Or do they have different nuances?

teacher

Native speaker’s answer

Rebecca

Good question! You're right. They are very similar. They could both mean financial support, emotional, or laborious support. But, I would say the main difference is that "back" means that people were the strength, crucial financial support, or worked hard for it. They're involved in the action. Whereas "support" could just be passive or monetary. Ex: I'll support you with whatever you need. Ex: I'll back you. If they say something rude, I'll speak up. Ex: The financial backing was necessary to get the loan. Ex: The financial support helped us continue for another month.

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