Meaning
The verb sustain means to keep something going, maintain it over time, or support it so it continues to exist. It can also mean to suffer or experience something (especially damage or loss).
Grammar and Usage
- Part of speech: Verb
- Verb type: Transitive (requires an object)
Typical structures
- sustain something – to maintain or keep something in operation
- sustain damage/injury/loss – to experience or suffer something
- sustain life – to support life or existence
Common Phrases
- sustain growth – to keep growth continuing
- sustain attention – to maintain focus
- sustain an injury – to be injured
- sustain life – to support or nourish life
- sustain an argument – to keep a discussion or debate going
Collocations
- sustain energy/momentum
- sustain pressure/stress
- sustain losses/damage
- sustain the environment
- sustain a conversation
Examples
- The company worked hard to sustain its growth during the economic downturn.
- She managed to sustain her attention throughout the long lecture.
- The soldier sustained serious injuries in battle.
- Proper nutrition is needed to sustain life.
- The building sustained heavy damage during the storm.
- He struggled to sustain the conversation after the first few minutes.
- Farmers need resources to sustain their crops during drought.
- The athlete could not sustain such a high level of performance forever.
- Efforts are being made to sustain the environment for future generations.
- The singer’s voice was strong enough to sustain the long notes beautifully.
Synonyms or Related
- maintain
- uphold
- preserve
- continue
- endure
- support
- nourish