failed to uphold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "failed to uphold" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation where someone did not maintain or support a standard, principle, or obligation. Example: "The organization failed to uphold its commitment to environmental sustainability, leading to widespread criticism."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"In failing to comply with the remedial action, the president thus failed to uphold, comply and respect the constitution.

The Guardian

In two separate meetings on Thursday, Johnson told them that their countries had failed to uphold their obligations under international law, specifically by failing to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to civilians during the months of the Aleppo siege.

The Guardian

In failing to prosecute – or even investigate – George W Bush following his admission, the United States failed to uphold its obligations under CAT.

The Guardian - Opinion

Politicians have failed to uphold civilian supremacy.

The New York Times

When the gangsters inevitably failed to uphold their obligations, Porter threw them out.

Independent

But an inquest jury found the Met failed to uphold the detained man's basic rights.

The Guardian

They half-heartedly agreed in January to a ceasefire, but failed to uphold it on the ground.

The Economist

His message to the demonstrators was uncompromising: "anarchy" would ensue if they failed to uphold the law.

The Economist

She said: "The agreement left unclear what action the government might take if the banks failed to uphold their promises.

The Guardian - Business

In recent years Milan have completely failed to uphold their proud defensive traditions of solidity and style.

The Guardian - Sport

"Overall, the conduct of the government has failed to uphold the rule of law and compromised law enforcement agencies".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "failed to uphold", ensure the subject is clearly defined. Specify what they failed to uphold (e.g. "failed to uphold the law", "failed to uphold their promise") for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "failed to uphold" excessively in highly emotional or biased writing. Instead, use more neutral language to maintain credibility and objectivity. Overuse can make your writing seem overly critical or sensationalized.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "failed to uphold" functions as a verb phrase indicating a failure to maintain, support, or defend a particular standard, principle, law, or promise. Ludwig AI shows examples in various contexts, like failing to uphold the law or promises.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "failed to uphold" is a versatile verb phrase used to express a failure in maintaining, supporting, or defending a principle, standard, or obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. It is frequently found in news and media, formal business settings, and encyclopedias, indicating a neutral to professional register. While semantically similar alternatives like "neglected to maintain" or "did not comply with" exist, the choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey. When using "failed to uphold", ensure clarity by specifying what was not upheld. Be mindful of overuse in emotionally charged contexts to maintain objectivity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

neglected to maintain

Focuses on the aspect of neglect or omission in keeping something in a particular condition or standard.

did not comply with

Highlights the lack of adherence to a rule, law, or instruction.

breached their commitment

Emphasizes the violation of a promise or agreement.

reneged on the agreement

Indicates a formal withdrawal from a prior promise or contract.

defaulted on their obligations

Specifically refers to failing to meet a financial or contractual duty.

fell short of expectations

Indicates a failure to achieve a desired outcome or level of performance.

lapsed in their duties

Suggests a temporary failure or neglect in carrying out responsibilities.

shirked their responsibilities

Implies an intentional avoidance of duties or tasks.

disregarded their principles

Focuses on the act of ignoring or dismissing core beliefs or moral guidelines.

ignored their mandate

Highlights the neglect or rejection of an official instruction or command.

FAQs

What does "failed to uphold" mean?

The phrase "failed to uphold" means that someone or something did not maintain or support a particular standard, principle, law, or promise. It implies a lack of adherence to an expected duty or obligation.

What are some synonyms for "failed to uphold"?

Synonyms for "failed to uphold" include "neglected to maintain", "did not comply with", or "breached their commitment". The best alternative depends on the specific context.

How can I use "failed to uphold" in a sentence?

You can use "failed to uphold" in a sentence like this: "The government "failed to uphold" its promise to reduce taxes" or "The company "failed to uphold" environmental standards."

What's the difference between "failed to uphold" and "failed to maintain"?

"Failed to uphold" implies a failure to support or defend something, such as a principle or law. "Failed to maintain" suggests a failure to keep something in good condition or working order. While similar, "uphold" has a stronger connotation of defending or supporting a standard, whereas "maintain" focuses on preservation.