# bolster up

CEFR C1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bolster-up
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to give extra support to something that is weak or failing so it stays strong.

For teachers: to provide additional support, reinforcement, or structural integrity to a failing or weak entity, often used figuratively for morale or economies.

## Examples

- They used extra wood to bolster up the old roof.
- The government lowered interest rates to bolster up the struggling economy during the winter months.
- The defense attorney attempted to bolster up his client's weak alibi by introducing several character witnesses of high social standing.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He bolstered up to his friend." but "He bolstered up his friend." — the verb is transitive and takes a direct object without a preposition like 'to'.

## Usage notes

- often used with abstract nouns like 'confidence', 'economy', or 'argument'.
- Teaching tip: explain that 'bolster' can stand alone as a verb; adding 'up' emphasizes the idea of lifting something that is sagging or falling.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.