a supportive colleague

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a supportive colleague" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a coworker who provides help, encouragement, or assistance in a professional setting. Example: "Having a supportive colleague can make a significant difference in the workplace, especially during challenging projects."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

He now sees Mr. Nalebuff as a supportive colleague.

The New York Times

He is, Williams says, a supportive colleague: "Nathan's supremely emotionally intelligent.

The Guardian

You could, for example, ask a supportive colleague to assess your performance after a meeting, and really take on board what they say.

The Guardian

As a long-serving Fellow of Jesus College Cambridge and member of Cambridge University engineering department, he is remembered by staff and former students as an inspirational lecturer, an outstanding researcher and a  supportive colleague.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

A wonderfully supportive colleague, he helped me win pension-sharing on divorce in 1994 (by three votes).

The Guardian

It isn't that long ago that a very supportive colleague of mine suggested that maybe I should take voice-coaching to teach me how to lower my voice so I was more effective in meetings.

The Guardian

He was a generous and supportive colleague, whose opinion was often sought.

The Guardian

She is remembered as a loyal and supportive colleague and was loved and respected by her students.

The New York Times

For the same things they seek in a workplace: supportive colleagues, flexible scheduling and, they say, a chance to be themselves.

The New York Times

We all wish her well in her new and challenging role, but I will feel the loss of an always stimulating and supportive colleague".

The Guardian

"Barbara has served with distinction and has been a strong, innovative, dedicated and supportive colleague.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing performance reviews, use "a supportive colleague" to highlight a team member's positive contributions to the work environment. For example, "John is a supportive colleague who consistently helps others."

Common error

Avoid limiting the description of "a supportive colleague" solely to professional tasks. A truly supportive colleague also offers emotional support and encouragement, fostering a positive team dynamic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a supportive colleague" functions as a noun phrase, where "supportive" is an adjective modifying the noun "colleague". As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this is a grammatically correct and usable expression. It is used to describe someone who provides help and encouragement in a professional setting.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a supportive colleague" is a grammatically sound and meaningful phrase used to describe a helpful and encouraging coworker. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate in various professional contexts. While not exceptionally frequent, it is commonly found in news media and scientific publications. When using this phrase, remember to consider both the professional assistance and the emotional encouragement that define a truly supportive colleague. Alternatives include "a helpful coworker" or "an encouraging peer", depending on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a helpful coworker

Focuses on the assistance provided.

a reliable teammate

Emphasizes dependability and collaboration.

an encouraging peer

Highlights the motivational aspect of the support.

a collaborative associate

Stresses the cooperative nature of the relationship.

a dependable ally

Highlights the reliability and alliance aspect.

a valuable contributor

Focuses on the worth and input they bring.

a positive influence

Emphasizes the beneficial effect on others.

a constructive collaborator

Highlights the ability to build things together effectively.

an understanding coworker

Highlights the empathy showed by the person.

a shoulder to lean on at work

Idiomatic expression indicating a source of emotional support.

FAQs

How can I describe the qualities of "a supportive colleague"?

Qualities of "a supportive colleague" include being helpful, encouraging, understanding, and reliable. They contribute to a positive and collaborative work environment.

What are some alternative ways to say "a supportive colleague"?

You can use phrases like "a helpful coworker", "a reliable teammate", or "an encouraging peer" depending on the context.

How does having "a supportive colleague" benefit the workplace?

Having "a supportive colleague" fosters a positive work environment, improves teamwork, and increases overall job satisfaction and productivity.

Is it appropriate to use the phrase "a supportive colleague" in formal communication?

Yes, the phrase "a supportive colleague" is suitable for formal communication, such as performance reviews, recommendation letters, and professional correspondence.