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.
It has now spent five years telling the public that above-target inflation is temporary, and each new shock makes that harder to sustain.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 4, 2026
They’re not certain that oil prices can sustain their current levels, which is why the profit forecasts haven’t risen more than that.
From Barron's • Apr. 3, 2026
The Emiratis sustain claims to the islands today.
From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 2, 2026
No one needed his blessing to enter the race, or his backing to sustain their candidacy.
From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 1, 2026
Tipping the scales at up to 1,450 pounds, he can sustain speeds of forty miles per hour.
From "Seabiscuit: An American Legend" by Laura Hillenbrand
From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.
