Meaning and Usage
The word 支持 (しじ) means "support" in the sense of backing or endorsing a person, idea, policy, or opinion. It is often used in formal or written contexts such as politics, social issues, or discussions where someone expresses agreement or advocacy.
Common Contexts
You will frequently see 支持 used when talking about political candidates, policies, or social movements. It can also be used in everyday conversation when expressing support for someone's opinion or decision.
Collocations and Patterns
- 支持する: to support or endorse something or someone.
- 強く支持する: to strongly support.
- 支持を得る: to gain support.
- 支持率: approval rating or support rate (common in polls).
Register and Nuance
支持 is generally neutral and formal. It is appropriate in both spoken and written Japanese but leans toward formal usage. It is not casual slang.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 支持 with 応援 (おうえん), which also means "support" but is more about cheering or encouragement, often in sports or personal contexts. 支持 is more about agreement or endorsement rather than emotional cheering.