ENGLISH
REFERENCE

sustaining

adj.
B2 Upper Intermediate US //səˈsteɪnɪŋ// UK //səstˈeɪnɪŋ// sus·tain·ing

adj. keeping something going or continuing over time. You use it to describe support that does not stop, like a steady supply of food or energy.

adj. providing continued support, nourishment, or maintenance to keep something in existence or operation. Typically used attributively before a noun.


SIMPLE

The project needs sustaining investment to survive.

CONTEXTUAL

The charity relies on sustaining donations from local businesses to keep its doors open all year.

COMPLEX

The region's economy depends on sustaining agricultural practices that preserve soil health while meeting the growing demands of a modern population.

Synonyms
Antonyms
Usage

Often used attributively before nouns like 'growth', 'development', or 'support'.

© 2026 English Reference