English Reference
Adjective

supportive

adj.
C1 Advanced Oxford US /səˈpɔɹtɪv/ UK /səpˈɔːtɪv/ sup·port·ive

adj.giving help, encouragement, or sympathy to someone who needs it. You are supportive when you listen to a friend's problems or help them reach a goal.

adj.providing encouragement, emotional help, or practical assistance to another person. Often describes a person's character or the nature of a relationship.


SIMPLE

My family is very supportive of my new career.

CONTEXTUAL

The manager was incredibly supportive when I needed to take time off for a family emergency.

COMPLEX

Creating a supportive environment in the workplace is essential for maintaining high levels of employee retention and overall mental well-being during periods of intense structural change.

Usage

Commonly followed by the preposition 'of' when identifying the object of the support.

Pitfall
She was supportive for meShe was supportive of me

When identifying the person or idea being helped, use the preposition 'of' rather than 'for'.

Usage highly supportive · supportive environment · supportive evidence

Mitie said safety was the "highest priority" and it maintained "a safe, secure and supportive environment for prisoners, colleagues and visitors".

BBC News· 18 Aug 2026

Both the victim and Wood lived across the street from each other in supportive housing for people with mental disabilities.

Toronto Sun· 16 Aug 2026

Common in history writing

This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Common
Updated