sustain
Usage
What are other ways to say sustain?
To sustain, a rather elevated word, suggests completeness and adequacy in supporting: The court sustained his claim. To support is to hold up or add strength to, literally or figuratively: The columns support the roof. To maintain is to support so as to preserve intact: to maintain an attitude of defiance. Uphold applies especially to supporting or backing another, as in a statement, opinion, or belief: to uphold the rights of a minority.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
American tanker aircraft helped sustain Israeli operations, and officials from both countries worked closely in planning military actions.
From The Wall Street Journal • Jun. 2, 2026
He further noted that both Fed officials and the public have a duty to “safeguard” the central bank’s credibility, which has taken decades to build and sustain.
From Barron's • Jun. 1, 2026
That trend has held remarkably well, but it is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain.
From Science Daily • May 30, 2026
He went on: "We are also concerned that the current funding levels mean that many pharmacies will struggle to take this development forwards, risking its success. Pharmacies cannot sustain yet more loss-making work."
From BBC • May 29, 2026
“Not the sort of happiness that can endure, that can sustain you.”
From "The Girl on the Train" by Paula Hawkins
Vocabulary lists containing sustain
List 2
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"Joyas Voladoras" by Brian Doyle
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Mother's Day Words: What Mothers Do
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