buttressed

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "buttressed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe something that is structurally supported or reinforced, either from the outside or from within. For example, "The arched ceiling was buttressed by four marble columns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Those amendments were subsequently introduced and the judges had buttressed them with new practice directions and new precedents.

The Guardian

For an allegedly anti-establishment magazine, it failed to challenge, and often buttressed, the state's well-documented increasing restrictions on the basic freedoms of Muslims.

The Guardian - Opinion

It would not take much to throw such an elaborate organism into chaos.The forces arrayed against North Korea are even more formidable: 639,000 South Korean troops, 5,300 artillery pieces and 460 combat aircraft, buttressed by over 28,000 American troops and a nuclear guarantee from the world's only superpower.

The Economist

In effect, the rescue funds (€80 billion from the eurozone buttressed by €30 billion from the International Monetary Fund) will replace commercial borrowing from the financial markets between now and 2012.

The Economist

This has buttressed the housing market by restricting supply, but left a huge overhang of properties that can be foreclosed.The process will accelerate.

The Economist

The prime minister's position has been buttressed by victory in a recent snap election.

The Economist

But at least the organisers usually ensure that representatives of the 22 countries put on a show of unity, albeit by issuing anodyne statements invariably buttressed by that oldest of friends, the lowest common denominator.

The Economist

Mr Hague's strategy is, in essence, a bet that Britain must rely mostly on herself in the next round of globalisation, buttressed by efforts to show voters at home that engagement with the world profits the country.

The Economist

A spent force Greed is gone L-shaped poverty lines The big bear Once bitten, twice shy Divided we stand The faith that moves Mammon Bold strokes Reprints Related items Rescuing the banks: But will it work?Oct 16th 2008These informal mechanisms are buttressed by state institutions such as regulators, bankruptcy procedures and the courts.

The Economist

There the Catholic church, buttressed by military dictatorships, kept "strong family" traditions alive.

The Economist

If so, and if it is a strong currency buttressed by tight monetary policies, then its early years could well be painful ones for Europe's weaker economies.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "buttressed", ensure that the subject receiving support is clearly identified. It's important to provide context on what exactly is being reinforced and by what means.

Common error

While "buttressed" is a valid word, it is often perceived as formal. Avoid using it excessively in casual conversation or informal writing, opting for simpler alternatives like "supported" or "reinforced" when appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "buttressed" is as a past participle or adjective. It describes something that has been strengthened or supported. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage, showcasing its role in describing structures, arguments, or positions that have been reinforced for stability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "buttressed" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjective, particularly within news, formal business, and scientific contexts. Ludwig AI and the provided examples showcase its use to describe things that have been strengthened or supported, providing a sense of stability. While appropriate for formal writing, it may be too strong for casual conversation, where simpler alternatives like "supported" or "reinforced" may be more fitting. Consider the context and intended formality when choosing to use "buttressed" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

reinforced

Emphasizes the act of strengthening something that already exists.

supported

Focuses on providing assistance or bearing weight to prevent collapse.

strengthened

Highlights the increase in power, durability, or resilience.

fortified

Implies the addition of defenses to protect against attack or weakening.

bolstered

Suggests a boost or encouragement, often psychological or economic.

reinforced with

Specifies that the support comes from the addition of certain elements or resources.

upheld

Focuses on maintaining or defending a principle or decision.

sustained

Implies continuous support over a period of time.

underpinned

Indicates a foundational support or basis.

braced

Suggests preparing for impact or resistance by providing extra support.

FAQs

How is "buttressed" used in a sentence?

The word "buttressed" can be used to describe something that is supported or strengthened, like, "The government's position was "buttressed" by the latest economic figures."

What are some synonyms for "buttressed"?

Alternatives for "buttressed" include "reinforced", "supported", and "strengthened", each carrying slightly different connotations of support and stability.

Is "buttressed" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "buttressed" is suitable for formal writing, particularly in academic, business, and journalistic contexts where a strong and stable image is desired.

What is the difference between "buttressed" and "supported"?

"Buttressed" typically implies a more structural or foundational support than "supported", which can be more general. Something that is "buttressed" has been reinforced to resist pressure or collapse.