sustain
Pronunciation: [səˈsteɪn]
Context: “support”
(verb) to keep something going or to support it over time. For example, if you take care of a plant and make sure it has water, you are sustaining its life.
Example
She worked hard to sustain her garden, making sure the flowers got enough sunlight and water.
Example
Without regular care, the plant could not sustain itself and eventually died.
Example
How can we sustain our friendship over the years?
Context: “endure”
(verb) to keep going through difficult times without giving up. If someone is able to handle hard situations, they can sustain their strength or spirit.
Example
He was able to sustain his focus during the tough exam.
Example
She could not sustain her interest in the project after so many problems.
Example
What strategies can help you sustain your energy during long activities?
Context: “maintain”
(verb) to provide what is needed for something to continue, especially in a good condition. Like making sure a car is working well so it can keep running.
Example
They needed to sustain the quality of the service to keep their customers happy.
Example
The company struggled to sustain their high standards when they expanded too quickly.
Example
How do we sustain a high level of performance in our team?