Word
sustained
Phoneticssus·tained, stress on the second syllable
US/səˈsteɪnd/
UK/səstˈeɪnd/
Definitions
01continuing for a long time
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. continuing for a long time at the same level or strength.
adj. maintained at a consistent level or intensity over a prolonged period.
“The company saw sustained growth over five years thanks to its new products.”
“The city faced a sustained period of economic decline before the new infrastructure project revitalised the downtown district.”
Usage
Often used to describe abstract nouns like 'effort', 'growth', or 'attack'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
02held musical note
C1 · Advanced Music Technical
adj. describing a musical note that is held for its full length without stopping.
adj. referring to a note or sound held at a constant pitch and volume without interruption.
“The singer ended the song with a long, sustained note that impressed the audience.”
“The composer requested a sustained pedal effect to create a wash of sound that would linger beneath the melody.”
Usage
Commonly used in instructions for singers or instrumentalists.
Antonyms
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “sustained” in context.
Adjective
01. sustained period
“The region experienced a sustained period of economic growth over the last decade.”
adj + noun
02. sustained serious
03. sustained abuse
04. sustained heat
05. sustained investment
06. sustained support
Real-World Examples
“British Transport Police said: “At this time we believe that two people have sustained serious injuries and a further nine patients have sustained less serious injuries.” “Gavi has sustained long-term injuries in two of the last three seasons, but the midfielder has passed with a clean bill of health going into the new campaign.” “Qusra's mayor had earlier told the BBC that local residents had seen "a clear and sustained pattern of targeting Qusra".” “WFP has appealed for urgent funding and sustained aid access to prevent the crisis from worsening.” Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Common
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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