in support of someone

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "in support of someone" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing assistance, endorsement, or backing for a person or their actions. Example: "The community gathered in support of the local charity event to raise funds for families in need."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

In one Secret you might see a public figure insulted, while the next features commenters rallying in support of someone who's depressed.

TechCrunch

It hits home how passionate and emotional people are about sport when you see the footage of fans from both sides singing songs and stuff in support of someone who has had something like that happen to them.

BBC

(Codicil to that rule: you occasionally get a pass if you write a book whining in support of someone who is dead. But even then, chance are you'll still be hit with the "hell hath no fury" tag).

TechCrunch

Post a comment on social media in support of someone you admire.

Huffington Post

If you come out in support of someone like me, you're going to be accused of trying to ingratiate yourself.

Huffington Post

Candidate-specific super PACs undercut federal contribution limits to candidates by allowing individuals to direct unlimited sums of money in support of someone running for office, while dark money groups evade the disclosure requirements for political contributions that currently exist under federal law.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

How much could you have been spending?" One thing that cannot be counted on is the continued support of someone's in-laws in divorce.

The New York Times

In this, Lancaster has the significant support of someone who knows what it is to lay hands on the Webb Ellis Trophy.

Independent

"The pressure to go along and not say anything about harassment is similar to the pressure to go along and sign a letter of support of someone powerful in a particular workplace," she said.

Huffington Post

In both cases, the human beneath becomes the support of someone else's image.

Vice

Having the support of someone close seems to help".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "in support of someone", ensure the context clearly indicates the nature of the support being offered. For example, specify whether it is financial, emotional, or political support.

Common error

Avoid using "in support of someone" when the action is merely tolerance or passive acceptance. This phrase implies active backing, not just lack of opposition.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in support of someone" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a verb or noun, indicating the beneficiary of an action or sentiment. As shown in the Ludwig examples, it connects an action (like rallying, commenting, or writing) to the person being supported.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

21%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "in support of someone" is a prepositional phrase used to express advocacy, approval, or solidarity with an individual. It is grammatically correct and most commonly found in news, media, and wiki contexts. Ludwig confirms its proper usage and offers examples demonstrating its varied applications. While several alternatives exist, such as "backing someone" or "standing by someone", "in support of someone" is a versatile option suitable for many situations, but ensure the context clearly indicates the nature of the backing provided.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on someone's side

Indicates alignment and support in a conflict or disagreement.

in favor of someone

Expresses preference or support for someone over others.

backing someone

Emphasizes active support or endorsement.

standing by someone

Implies unwavering support, especially during difficult times.

endorsing someone

Suggests formal approval or recommendation.

advocating for someone

Highlights active promotion of someone's interests or cause.

supporting someone's cause

Highlights backing the person's specific goal or endeavor.

championing someone

Implies actively defending and promoting someone's rights or ideas.

aiding someone

Focuses on giving help or assistance to a person in need.

bolstering someone

Implies strengthening or reinforcing someone's position or confidence.

FAQs

What does "in support of someone" mean?

The phrase "in support of someone" means to advocate for, defend, or assist a person or their cause. It suggests actively backing their endeavors or standing by them during challenging times.

How can I use "in support of someone" in a sentence?

You can use the phrase to show approval. For example: "The community rallied in support of someone who had experienced a personal tragedy." or "I wrote a comment on social media in support of someone I admire."

Are there formal alternatives to "in support of someone"?

Yes, some formal alternatives include "endorsing someone", "advocating for someone", or "championing someone". These options are suitable for professional or academic writing.

What's the difference between "in favor of someone" and "in support of someone"?

"In favor of someone" typically indicates a preference or approval, while "in support of someone" suggests a more active role in assisting or defending the person. "In favor of someone" often reflects an opinion, while in support implies action.