Meaning and Usage
The verb 支える (ささえる) primarily means "to support," "to hold up," or "to sustain." It can be used both physically, such as supporting a structure, and figuratively, such as supporting a person emotionally or financially.
Common Contexts
- Physical support: pillars, walls, or hands supporting objects.
- Emotional or financial support: family, friends, or organizations supporting someone's dreams or needs.
Collocations and Patterns
- 支える柱 (ささえるはしら): supporting pillar — used literally for structural support.
- 夢を支える (ゆめをささえる): to support a dream — figurative, emotional or motivational support.
- 家族を支える (かぞくをささえる): to support one's family — often financial or emotional.
Register and Politeness
支える is a neutral verb suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversation and writing.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes confuse 支える with 持つ (もつ, to hold) or 支援する (しえんする, to provide support/help). 支える emphasizes sustaining or holding up, often continuously, while 持つ is more about holding or carrying, and 支援する is more formal and often used for organized support or aid.