prop up
The phrase "prop up" is often used to describe giving support, whether physically, financially, or otherwise, to help something or someone remain stable.
Definition
B2General
(common)To place something under or against an object to prevent it from falling.
Example
- They had to prop up the bookshelf with some wooden planks.
- The old barn was propped up by several sturdy beams.
C1Finance
(technical)To provide financial assistance to help a struggling entity remain operational.
Example
- The government decided to prop up the failing bank with a substantial bailout.
- International loans have been used to prop up the economy during the recession.
B2General
(common)To give support or assistance to someone or something in a difficult situation.
Example
- Her friends helped to prop her up during the tough times.
- The donations were crucial to prop up the charity's efforts.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "prop up":
buoy uplift upbear upjack upput upleg upback upstand behindplay upbear outpush up againstperk upstay upfront uphold upstick upbob uphead uptalk upstand up withpost upput up ongin uppump upbump upstiff upget it upkeep uppush upbuild uphold togethersit upbring upbrace upstand up tosit up withtrump up