Understanding the Word SUSTAIN

The question asks us to find the most appropriate synonym for the word "SUSTAIN," which is identified as a verb (V). A synonym is a word that has the same or nearly the same meaning as another word.

Let's look at the meaning of "SUSTAIN." As a verb, "sustain" typically means:

• To keep something going or existing.
• To provide support for; to hold up.
• To undergo or suffer (something unpleasant, especially an injury).
• To confirm or corroborate (a statement or theory).

In the context of finding a general synonym, the meanings related to keeping something going, supporting, or holding up are most common.

Analyzing the Options for Synonym of SUSTAIN

We are given four options:

1. Support
2. Weaken
3. Believe
4. Suspect

Let's examine each option and its meaning:

Option 1: Support

• Meaning: To bear the weight of, especially from below. To hold up or bolster. To keep going; maintain or sustain.
• Comparison: The meaning "To keep going; maintain or sustain" directly aligns with a key meaning of "sustain." Also, "to bear the weight of" or "hold up" relates to the supportive aspect of sustaining something.

Option 2: Weaken

• Meaning: To make or become weaker; reduce in strength or effect.
• Comparison: This word has the opposite meaning of strengthening or maintaining something, which are aspects of "sustain." Therefore, "weaken" is an antonym, not a synonym, of "sustain."

Option 3: Believe

• Meaning: To accept that something is true, especially without proof. To have faith in the truth or existence of something.
• Comparison: This relates to conviction or acceptance of truth and is not related to the meanings of "sustain" concerning support, maintenance, or enduring something.

Option 4: Suspect

• Meaning: To have an idea or impression of the existence, presence, or truth of something without certain proof. To doubt the genuineness or truth of (something).
• Comparison: This relates to doubt or tentative belief and has no connection to the meaning of "sustain."

Identifying the Correct Synonym for SUSTAIN

Comparing the meanings, "Support" is the only word among the options that shares a significant meaning with "SUSTAIN," specifically the sense of holding up, maintaining, or keeping something going. For example, "The pillars sustain the roof" means "The pillars support the roof." Or, "Sustain economic growth" means "Support economic growth" or "Maintain economic growth."

Conclusion

Based on the analysis of the meanings of "SUSTAIN" and the given options, the most appropriate synonym for "SUSTAIN" is "Support".

Revision Table: Understanding Synonyms

Additional Information on Vocabulary Building

Understanding synonyms and antonyms is a crucial part of building strong vocabulary. When learning a new word like "sustain," try to:

• Look up multiple meanings and see how it's used in different sentences.
• Identify its part of speech.
• Find synonyms and antonyms to understand its relationship with other words.
• Use the word in your own sentences to practice.

This approach helps in better comprehension and effective usage of words in communication.