support existing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "support existing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to the act of providing assistance or resources to something that is already in place or established. Example: "Our goal is to support existing initiatives that promote sustainability in our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Do the reports offer recommendations designed to alter current dietary habits or that support existing recommendations?

The New York Times

Roden hopes that other universities and perhaps large companies will follow suit and support existing schools.

The Guardian

The company believes that technology should support existing patterns of play, Mrs. Browning added.

The New York Times

Without comparable support, existing infrastructure (including transit) in established urban neighborhoods deteriorated.

The New York Times

Validation grants of up to $30 million will support existing programs that have shown evidence that they can work.

The New York Times

They are, after all, the people who might finance new companies that create jobs, make big investments to support existing companies and spread their wealth throughout the economy.

The New York Times

While there are foundations that support existing music programs, Mr. Juritz said no other charities were dedicated to starting music education projects in poor areas.

The New York Times - Arts

We want to creatively explore its design so that a trove can help cared-for children make collecting memories more significant, and support existing work with life stories.

The Guardian

Finally, a new entertainment unit will support existing programs, like "Car Talk" and "Wait Wait... Don't Tell Me!," a news quiz show, and develop new broadcasts.

The New York Times - Arts

Birol said the IEA's previous forecasts for hydropower and wind power had been correct and that solar projections were based on the government support existing at the time.

The Guardian

Donors convening in London this week must invest in new medical centres and support existing ones where Syrian medics can serve their own people.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "support existing", ensure that the context clearly defines what is being supported and why. For instance, "The grant will support existing community programs aimed at reducing homelessness" provides clarity and purpose.

Common error

Avoid using "support existing" without specifying what is being supported. Instead of saying "We need to support existing efforts", clarify with "We need to support existing conservation efforts in the region" to provide specific context.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "support existing" functions as a verb phrase, typically used as part of a larger sentence. It indicates an action aimed at providing aid, resources, or maintenance to something that already exists. According to Ludwig, the phrase is both correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "support existing" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that describes the action of providing aid or resources to something already in place. As noted by Ludwig, it is grammatically sound and appropriate for various contexts, particularly in news, science, and formal business settings. While commonly used, it's crucial to specify what exactly is being supported to avoid vagueness. Alternatives like "sustain current" or "bolster ongoing" can provide nuanced variations. By understanding its function, purpose, and context, you can effectively incorporate "support existing" into your writing to convey clear and impactful meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sustain current

This alternative replaces "support" with "sustain" and "existing" with "current", emphasizing the maintenance of the present state.

bolster ongoing

This alternative uses "bolster" to convey strengthening and "ongoing" in place of "existing", highlighting the continuous nature of the supported entity.

maintain present

This alternative focuses on keeping the current state, substituting "support" with "maintain" and rephrasing "existing" as "present".

uphold established

This alternative employs "uphold" to denote maintaining and "established" for "existing", suggesting a formal or legal aspect.

aid prevailing

This option uses "aid" as a synonym for "support" and "prevailing" to describe what is currently in effect.

reinforce active

This alternative focuses on strengthening what is currently "active", using "reinforce" as the primary action.

promote extant

This alternative uses "promote" to suggest advancement and "extant", a more formal word for "existing".

back continuing

This alternative uses the more informal term "back" and "continuing" to describe the ongoing nature of what's being supported.

preserve operational

This phrase prioritizes keeping something "operational", replacing "support" with "preserve" and "existing" with "operational".

fund current

This alternative is more specific, implying financial support for something "current".

FAQs

How can I use "support existing" in a sentence?

You can use "support existing" to describe providing help to things already in place. For example, "The new policy will "support existing" small businesses in the area".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "support existing"?

Alternatives include "sustain current", "bolster ongoing", or "maintain present", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to say "support existing programs" or "develop new programs"?

The choice depends on your objective. "Support existing programs" focuses on reinforcing current efforts, while "develop new programs" aims to create something new. Often, a balanced approach is best, where you "support existing" successful initiatives while also exploring innovative solutions.

What does it mean to "support existing infrastructure"?

To "support existing infrastructure" means to provide the necessary resources and maintenance to keep current systems, like roads, bridges, and utilities, functioning effectively. This can involve funding, repairs, upgrades, and other forms of assistance to ensure the longevity and reliability of these systems.