Definitions
- Describing the foundation or basis of an argument, theory, or idea. - Referring to the support or justification for a particular action or decision. - Talking about the fundamental principles or beliefs that form the basis of something.
- Referring to the support or strengthening of something that is already in place. - Describing the act of reinforcing or adding to something to make it stronger or more effective. - Talking about the provision of additional resources or support to improve a situation or outcome.
List of Similarities
- 1Both words refer to providing support or reinforcement.
- 2Both words suggest strengthening or improving something.
- 3Both words can be used figuratively to describe non-physical support.
What is the difference?
- 1Focus: Underpin emphasizes the foundational or underlying support, while bolster focuses on adding to or reinforcing what is already there.
- 2Timing: Underpin suggests support that is present from the beginning, while bolster implies support that is added later.
- 3Intensity: Bolster suggests a more active and forceful form of support, while underpin can be more passive and subtle.
- 4Scope: Bolster can refer to a wide range of support, including financial, emotional, or physical, while underpin is more limited to intellectual or theoretical support.
- 5Connotation: Underpin has a more serious and academic connotation, while bolster can be used in a wider range of contexts and tones.
Remember this!
Underpin and bolster are synonyms that both describe providing support or reinforcement. However, underpin emphasizes the foundational or underlying support, while bolster focuses on adding to or reinforcing what is already there. Additionally, bolster suggests a more active and forceful form of support, while underpin can be more passive and subtle.
