lukewarm support

USAGE SUMMARY

'lukewarm support' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone or something that does not enthusiastically support something, or someone that only provides limited support. For example, "The organization received lukewarm support from the local community and couldn't continue its operations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Supporters of same-sex marriage said the poll showed only lukewarm support for the measure.

The New York Times

Lukewarm support for Mr. Romney?

The New York Times

This certainly boosted his previously lukewarm support.

The Economist

Opinion polls show only lukewarm support for privatisation.

The Economist

But even within the coalition he has only lukewarm support.

The Economist

Maybe the tax will prove stillborn, anyway, given the lukewarm support from Germany.

The New York Times

She campaigned outside the party structure, with only lukewarm support from its grandees.

The Economist

The screening has met with lukewarm support from the medical profession.

Independent

But lukewarm support, even if it still constitutes a majority, could lead to strife.

The Economist

But he has lukewarm support within his own party and faces obstructionist opposition.

The Economist

Cabinet ministers ambled to Brown's defence, eager to show their lukewarm support.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing support, consider the context and intensity. "Lukewarm support" is best used when the backing is present but lacks enthusiasm or conviction.

Common error

Avoid using "lukewarm support" when there is outright opposition. "Lukewarm support" signifies a level of acceptance, albeit without enthusiasm, rather than outright rejection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lukewarm support" functions as a noun phrase, where "lukewarm" modifies the noun "support". It describes the quality or intensity of the support being given. Ludwig confirms that it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Science

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "lukewarm support" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe a lack of enthusiasm or strong endorsement. As Ludwig AI confirms, its frequent appearance in News & Media indicates its relevance in discussing opinions, political stances, and general attitudes. The phrase implies a form of acceptance or acknowledgement, but without strong commitment. While it is not incorrect to use it in formal business contexts, it is important to remember to use it when the support is present and not in cases when there is full rejection. If in doubt, alternatives like "qualified approval" or "grudging support" can also be used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tepid endorsement

Conveys a sense of mild or unenthusiastic approval, similar to lukewarm support.

halfhearted backing

Describes support that is given without full commitment or enthusiasm, implying a lack of genuine endorsement.

grudging support

Suggests support that is given unwillingly or reluctantly, indicating a lack of enthusiasm or genuine endorsement.

passive support

Indicates support that is given without active involvement or enthusiasm, suggesting a more detached form of backing.

qualified approval

Indicates approval that is subject to certain conditions or reservations, suggesting a limited or conditional endorsement.

cold support

Suggests a lack of warmth or enthusiasm in the support being offered, indicating a detached or indifferent endorsement.

negative support

Describes support that is reluctant or given with reservations, implying a lack of genuine enthusiasm.

feeble support

Denotes support that is weak and ineffective, implying a lack of strength or conviction in the backing being provided.

sluggish support

Indicates support that is slow and hesitant, suggesting a lack of urgency or enthusiasm in the endorsement.

mixed support

Describes a situation where there is both support and opposition, implying a divided sentiment.

FAQs

How is "lukewarm support" typically used in a sentence?

"Lukewarm support" is generally used to describe a lack of enthusiasm or strong endorsement for a cause, person, or idea. For example, "The proposal received "lukewarm support" from the committee, indicating a lack of strong backing.

What are some alternatives to saying "lukewarm support"?

Alternatives to "lukewarm support" include phrases like "grudging support", "tepid endorsement", or "qualified approval", each suggesting a lack of strong enthusiasm or commitment.

Is it appropriate to use "lukewarm support" in formal writing?

Yes, "lukewarm support" is appropriate in formal writing. It is a clear and concise way to express a lack of strong enthusiasm or endorsement, suitable for various contexts.

What's the difference between "lukewarm support" and "outright opposition"?

"Lukewarm support" implies some level of acceptance or willingness to consider something, even without strong enthusiasm. "Outright opposition", on the other hand, indicates a complete rejection or resistance to the idea or proposal.