supportive
supportive — adjective
1. showing that you agree with someone's plans, ideas, or choices and giving them c
showing that you agree with someone's plans, ideas, or choices and giving them confidence to go ahead
Imran's family was supportive when he announced his plan to open a small café.
supportive + when + [person announces plan]
Gabriela's teacher was supportive of her decision to study design instead of business.
supportive of + [decision]
Bao felt more confident about changing careers because his colleagues were supportive.
Eli's parents were always supportive of his choice to study marine biology.
- encouraging
focuses on giving hope and confidence; slightly more active in tone
- approving
emphasises agreement rather than emotional backing; more formal
- positive
broader — describes general attitude rather than specific backing of a plan
- unsupportive
direct opposite; not giving agreement or encouragement
- critical
actively finds fault rather than offering support
文法句型
supportive + of + [person's plan/idea/decision/choice]
supportive + of + [person]
用法筆記
Commonly followed by the preposition 'of' to specify what idea or person is being encouraged. Subject is typically a person or group (family, manager, teacher, colleague).
常見錯誤
2. giving practical help, emotional comfort, or encouragement to someone who is dea
giving practical help, emotional comfort, or encouragement to someone who is dealing with a difficult situation
When Yara lost her job, her friends were supportive and helped her find new roles.
supportive and helped [person]
The nursing staff at the hospital were extremely supportive throughout Rodrigo's recovery.
supportive throughout [period]
Élise's neighbours were supportive after the flood, sharing meals and offering a room to stay.
Imani found a welcoming and supportive community at the local library's weekly writing group.
- helpful
focuses on practical assistance; less emotional than 'supportive'
- caring
emphasises warmth and concern for another person's wellbeing
- reassuring
focuses on reducing worry or fear; more specific in emotional tone
- unsupportive
direct opposite; failing to offer help or comfort
- neglectful
failing to care for someone who needs help; stronger negative connotation
文法句型
supportive + of + [person]
supportive + toward/towards + [person]
[person] + be + supportive + through/during + [difficult period]
用法筆記
This sense focuses on actions and practical assistance rather than mere agreement. It is especially common in healthcare, caregiving, and community contexts. When describing help given through a difficult time, 'throughout', 'during', or 'after' are frequently used.