What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
afford
Example
I can't afford to buy a new car right now. [afford: verb]
Example
We can afford to take a vacation this year. [afford: verb]
Example
The bridge can't afford the weight of heavy trucks. [afford: verb]
sustain
Example
The company needs to sustain its growth to remain competitive. [sustain: verb]
Example
The athlete sustained a serious injury during the game. [sustained: past participle]
Example
The farmer sustained his family by growing crops. [sustain: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Afford is more commonly used than sustain in everyday language, especially in financial contexts. Sustain is more commonly used in technical or academic contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between afford and sustain?
Sustain is generally considered more formal than afford, which is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
