it sustained me

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it sustained me" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing something that provided support, nourishment, or strength during a difficult time or situation. Example: "During my toughest days, the love of my family and friends was what truly sustained me."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It sustained me through spells of under- and unemployment.

The Guardian - Money

Despite the background role his mother plays in his memoir, "Dreams From My Father," Mr. Obama says in "A Singular Woman" that she gave him "a sense of unconditional love that was big enough that, with all the surface disturbances of our lives, it sustained me, entirely".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

"In the 37 years that I have owned this canvas," he wrote to his dealer in 1936, "it has sustained me morally in all the critical moments of my venture as an artist".

The Guardian - Arts

Matisse held onto his painting for more than three decades before giving it to the Petit Palais in Paris, saying, "It has sustained me morally in the critical moments of my venture as an artist".

The New York Times - Arts

It has sustained me and overwhelmed me in equal measure.

The Guardian - Sport

In the process, it has sustained me so I could make whatever contributions I have to make.

Huffington Post

"It's really sustained me," Mr. Tomasello, 57, an Air Force veteran, said of the parish in the Morrisania neighborhood.

The New York Times

"Just the thought that there is help in the margins means you don't necessarily have to take it, and that has sustained me," said Naomi L. Maloney, a copywriter and brand consulting strategist in Oakland, Calif., whose friends have offered her loans.

The New York Times

"My faith has always sustained me, but it is about my relationship with God rather than going through a third person.

The Guardian

It's that belief which has sustained me over two years as Chief Inspector.

The Guardian

It could sustain me and my three children for about six months, but it was for emergency use only.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "it sustained me", ensure that the "it" is clearly defined and the context is specific, highlighting what exactly provided the necessary support during a particular time or situation. This makes your writing more impactful and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid vague references by ensuring the "it" in "it sustained me" is clearly defined. For instance, instead of saying "Life was hard, but it sustained me", specify what exactly provided support: "Life was hard, but my faith sustained me."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it sustained me" primarily functions as a statement of personal experience, indicating that something provided support, strength, or nourishment. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. The examples show it used to describe emotional, moral, or practical support during difficult times.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it sustained me" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to convey that something provided support during a challenging time. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase effectively communicates reliance on a particular source for strength or endurance. Primarily found in the news and media, its neutral register makes it suitable for various contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the "it" is clearly defined to enhance clarity. Consider alternatives such as "it supported me" or "it gave me strength" to add nuance. The phrase is deemed uncommon, though correct and clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it supported me

Indicates providing assistance or encouragement during a challenging period.

it gave me strength

Focuses on the provision of power and resilience.

it nourished me

Emphasizes the provision of essential elements for growth and well-being.

it carried me through

Highlights the act of being transported or assisted through a difficult experience.

it fortified me

Highlights the act of strengthening and reinforcing one's resolve or position.

it was my lifeline

Emphasizes the vital importance and life-saving nature of the support received.

it was my anchor

Indicates stability and security provided during turbulent times.

it kept me going

Focuses on the continuous provision of motivation and energy.

it buoyed me up

Emphasizes the uplifting and encouraging effect of the support.

it provided solace

Highlights the comfort and relief offered during distress.

FAQs

What does "it sustained me" mean?

The phrase "it sustained me" means that something provided support, strength, or nourishment during a difficult or challenging time, helping you to persevere. For example, love or hope may have "sustained" you.

What can I say instead of "it sustained me"?

You can use alternatives such as "it supported me", "it nourished me", or "it gave me strength" depending on the context.

How do I use "it sustained me" in a sentence?

You can use "it sustained me" to describe something that helped you through a tough period. For example, "During my unemployment, the thought of finding a new job is what sustained me".

Is "it sustained me" formal or informal?

The phrase "it sustained me" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the overall tone and style of your writing. It is generally considered neutral and widely acceptable.