What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
auxiliary
Example
The auxiliary nurse helped the doctor with patient care. [auxiliary: adjective]
Example
She used an auxiliary cable to connect her phone to the car stereo. [auxiliary: noun]
supporting
Example
The supporting actor delivered a brilliant performance in the play. [supporting: adjective]
Example
Her research provided supporting evidence for her theory. [supporting: present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supporting is more commonly used than auxiliary in everyday language. Supporting is a widely understood term that can be easily used in various contexts, while auxiliary is less common and often used in specific technical or formal settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between auxiliary and supporting?
While auxiliary is typically associated with technical or formal language, supporting is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.