supports

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "supports" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to providing assistance, backing, or endorsement for a person, idea, or project. Example: "The new policy supports the initiative to reduce carbon emissions in our city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The Daily Express is already pro-Ukip, while the Sunday Express supports the Tories.

The Guardian

It supports them in exam stress and [instead of panicking] it allows them to put space between themselves and a difficult question".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

He supports a "European" element in national unemployment benefits schemes, aimed at softening the impact of mass unemployment in large parts of particularly southern Europe and especially among the young.

The Guardian

In the same poll 52% of those in the north questioned agreed with the statement, that they would be "less likely to vote for a party that supports same sex marriage", this despite 55% outlining support for the principle of legalising same sex marriages.

The Guardian

Carolynne Wheeler, news manager (acting), WaterAid, London, UK, @carwheeler A former journalist, Carolynne supports WaterAid's policy and campaigns team on media work and advocacy around access to water, sanitation and hygiene.

The Guardian

A Shell spokesman said: "Shell supports and endorses incentive programmes provided by state and local authorities that improve the business climate for capital investment, economic expansion and job growth.

The Guardian

As the workshop came to a close, we were given a list of helplines and support services to discuss any concerns we had, ranging from the 999 emergency line, to a harassment advisory network, the local rape crisis network, and a charity that supports male survivors of sexual violence.

The Guardian

Following Harriet Harman's announcement this weekend of a reversal of Labour party policy, meaning that it now supports an EU referendum, Robertson restates the SNP's opposition to the plan but argues that, if the vote is to go ahead, then "David Cameron has a responsibility to help ensure it can be an enriching and open debate".

The Guardian

"The circumstance that torn-up current medical certificates – also pertaining to the day of the act – were found, supports, after preliminary examination, the assumption that the deceased hid his illness from his employer and his professional circles".

The Guardian

Under Labour party rules "any member of the party who joins and/or supports a political organisation other than an official Labour group or unit of the party... shall automatically be ineligible to be or remain a party member".

The Guardian

The former Community Relations Minister in the 1974 power-sharing executive will address a Fianna Fail meeting at the Goat Bar in south Dublin, where he will tell party members that he supports their move into Northern Ireland and eventual fusion with the SDLP.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "supports", ensure that the object of support is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. For instance, specify what or whom is being supported.

Common error

Avoid using "supports" when the intention is merely tolerance or acknowledgement. "Supports" implies active backing, not just passive acceptance.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "supports" is a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense form of "support". It indicates that a subject provides assistance, approval, or resources to someone or something. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's a word widely present in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "supports" is a grammatically correct and very common verb, primarily used in a neutral register. Ludwig AI confirms its consistent usage. Its main function is to express endorsement or assistance, frequently found in news and media. While alternatives like "endorses" or "backs" exist, the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When writing, ensure the object of support is clear and that the level of commitment aligns with the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

endorses

Implies a more formal and public approval.

advocates

Implies public support and recommendation.

backs

Suggests providing active assistance and encouragement.

bolsters

Implies strengthening or reinforcing something.

upholds

Indicates maintaining or defending something.

sustains

Indicates providing necessary resources to maintain something.

champions

Conveys active and enthusiastic support.

aids

Suggests providing help or assistance.

promotes

Focuses on actively encouraging the growth or popularity of something.

fosters

Conveys nurturing and encouraging growth or development.

FAQs

How to use "supports" in a sentence?

You can use "supports" to indicate that someone or something provides assistance, encouragement, or approval to a person, idea, or project. For example, "The community "supports the local school"".

What can I say instead of "supports"?

You can use alternatives like "endorses", "backs", or "advocates" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "supports" or "support"?

The correct form depends on the subject. Use "support" with plural subjects or the pronouns I, we, you, they. Use "supports" with singular subjects or the pronouns he, she, it. For example, "He supports the initiative" versus "They support the initiative".

What's the difference between "supports" and "helps"?

"Supports" often implies a more formal or consistent backing, while "helps" suggests more general assistance. For instance, a government "supports" a policy, while a friend "helps" with a task.