What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
rooting
Example
I've been rooting for the Lakers since I was a kid. [rooting: verb]
Example
The gardener spent the afternoon rooting the cuttings in a pot. [rooting: gerund or present participle]
supporting
Example
I am supporting my friend's decision to go back to school. [supporting: present participle]
Example
The fans were loudly supporting their team during the championship game. [supporting: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supporting is more commonly used than rooting in everyday language. Supporting is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while rooting is less common and has a more specific meaning.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between rooting and supporting?
Supporting can be used in both formal and informal contexts, while rooting is typically associated with a more informal or colloquial tone.
