to uphold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to uphold" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to maintaining or supporting a principle, law, or standard. Example: "It is our duty to uphold the values of integrity and honesty in our organization."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We are sworn to uphold the Constitution.

The New York Times

"We need to uphold our own values".

The New York Times

"We're trying to uphold our rights".

The New York Times

That is a dangerous illusion to uphold.

The New York Times

Politicians have failed to uphold civilian supremacy.

The New York Times

If the court rules to uphold Prop.

The New York Times

There are appearances to uphold.

The Guardian - Books

He's got his own credo to uphold.

The New Yorker

I've got to uphold the family tradition.

Independent

They need to uphold the Constitution".

The New York Times

I'm now going to uphold the law".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to uphold" when you want to convey a sense of duty or obligation to maintain a standard, principle, or law. For example, "As citizens, we have a responsibility to uphold the Constitution."

Common error

Avoid using "to uphold" when a more neutral term like "to maintain" or "to support" would be more appropriate. "To uphold" often carries a stronger connotation of active defense or preservation, which might not always be intended.

Linguistic Context

The infinitive phrase "to uphold" functions primarily as a verb phrase, often used to express the action of supporting, maintaining, or defending a principle, law, or standard. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and frequent usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to uphold" is a grammatically sound and frequently used infinitive phrase signifying the act of maintaining, defending, or supporting a principle, law, or standard. Ludwig confirms its widespread usage across various contexts, particularly in news and media, formal business settings and encyclopedias. While versatile, "to uphold" carries a connotation of active defense and commitment, making it crucial to consider the specific context and choose synonyms like "to maintain" or "to support" when a more neutral tone is desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to maintain

This alternative emphasizes the act of keeping something in its current state or condition, often implying a need for continuous effort.

to defend

This suggests actively protecting something from attack or opposition, highlighting a more combative stance.

to preserve

This emphasizes the act of keeping something intact or preventing it from decaying or being damaged.

to support

This suggests providing assistance or encouragement to something, often implying a belief in its value or importance.

to champion

This implies actively advocating for something, often with enthusiasm and dedication.

to stand by

This suggests remaining loyal to something, even in difficult circumstances.

to abide by

This means to conform to or comply with something, such as a rule or agreement.

to adhere to

This emphasizes sticking closely to something, often implying a strict or unwavering commitment.

to safeguard

This suggests actively protecting something from harm or danger, often implying a proactive approach.

to honor

This emphasizes respecting something and acting in accordance with its principles or values.

FAQs

How do you use "to uphold" in a sentence?

The phrase "to uphold" is used to express the act of maintaining or defending a principle, law, or standard. For example, "The court has a duty "to uphold" the law" or "We must "to uphold" our values."

What's the difference between "to uphold" and "to maintain"?

"To uphold" implies a sense of active support and defense, suggesting a potential challenge or threat to what is being upheld. "To maintain", on the other hand, simply means to keep something in its current state without necessarily implying a challenge.

What are some synonyms for "to uphold"?

Alternatives to "to uphold" include "to maintain", "to defend", "to support", "to preserve", and "to champion". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it always necessary to use "to uphold" in formal writing?

While "to uphold" is suitable for formal writing, it's not always necessary. Consider the specific context and whether the connotation of active defense or preservation is appropriate. In some cases, a more neutral term like "to maintain" or "to support" might be a better fit.