What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
sustain
Example
The athlete's injury was severe and he couldn't sustain his performance. [sustain: verb]
Example
The company needs to find a way to sustain its growth in the long term. [sustain: verb]
Example
The plants need water and sunlight to sustain their growth. [sustain: verb]
support
Example
I will support you in your decision to go back to school. [support: verb]
Example
The bridge's pillars support the weight of the structure. [support: verb]
Example
The politician received support from many voters during the election. [support: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Support is more commonly used than sustain in everyday language. Support is a versatile word that can be used in many different contexts, while sustain is more specific and often used in technical or scientific contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between sustain and support?
Both sustain and support can be used in formal and informal contexts, but sustain may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing, which tends to be more formal.
