How To Use “Sustained” In A Sentence: Exploring The Word

Using the word “sustained” in a sentence can add depth and sophistication to your writing. This versatile word can be used in various contexts to convey the idea of something lasting or continuing over a period of time. Whether you’re a seasoned writer or just starting out, understanding how to use “sustained” correctly will enhance the clarity and impact of your sentences.

So, how exactly should you use “sustained” in a sentence? Let’s explore the proper way to incorporate this word into your writing.

Before diving into the specifics, it’s important to note that “sustained” is an adjective that describes something that has been maintained or continued without interruption. It implies a sense of durability, longevity, and consistency. By using “sustained,” you can emphasize the enduring nature of an action, event, or quality.

Now, let’s delve into some examples and guidelines to help you effectively use “sustained” in your sentences.

Definition Of Sustained

Sustained, in its simplest form, refers to the act of maintaining or continuing something over a prolonged period of time. It implies a level of consistency and endurance, suggesting that an action, state, or condition is upheld without interruption or decline.

Throughout history, the concept of sustained has held a significant role in various domains, adapting to the changing needs and contexts of different eras. While the term itself may not have undergone substantial alterations, its application has evolved to encompass a range of meanings.

When examining sustained in different contexts, it becomes evident that the word takes on nuanced interpretations depending on the subject matter. For instance, in the realm of music, sustained refers to a musical note or sound that is held for a longer duration, creating a sense of continuity and resonance. On the other hand, in legal contexts, sustained may pertain to a ruling or objection that is upheld by a judge, indicating its validity and permanence.

How To Properly Use Sustained In A Sentence

When it comes to using the word “sustained” in a sentence, it is essential to understand the grammatical rules that govern its usage. This versatile word can function as both a verb and an adjective, depending on the context in which it is used. Let’s delve into the intricacies of using “sustained” effectively in your writing.

Grammatical Rules For Using Sustained

1. As a verb:

When “sustained” is employed as a verb, it typically means to maintain or support something over an extended period. In this sense, it often conveys the idea of enduring or continuing without interruption. For example:

• She sustained her commitment to the project despite facing numerous challenges.
• The company’s success was sustained by a dedicated team of professionals.
• He sustained a serious injury during the marathon.

2. As an adjective:

As an adjective, “sustained” describes something that is prolonged or maintained for a considerable duration. It signifies the idea of something lasting or enduring over time. Consider the following examples:

• The orchestra played a sustained note that resonated throughout the auditorium.
• Her sustained efforts in studying paid off when she aced the exam.
• The company experienced sustained growth over the past decade.

3. Other parts of speech:

In addition to its primary roles as a verb and an adjective, “sustained” can also function as a noun or a past participle. However, these usages are less common and may be more specific to certain contexts. It is important to note that the noun form of “sustained” is often used in legal or medical contexts, referring to injuries or legal claims. For example:

• The victim suffered multiple sustained injuries in the accident.
• The lawyer argued for a sustained objection to the evidence presented.

By understanding the different grammatical roles that “sustained” can assume, you can effectively incorporate this word into your writing, adding depth and precision to your sentences.

Examples Of Using Sustained In A Sentence

When it comes to incorporating the word “sustained” into a sentence, it’s important to showcase its versatility and various contexts. By utilizing a combination of simple and complex sentences, we can effectively demonstrate how this word can be employed in different scenarios. Let’s explore some examples below:

1. In The Context Of Endurance Or Longevity:

• The marathon runner sustained her pace throughout the entire race, crossing the finish line with a personal best.
• Despite facing numerous setbacks, the project team sustained their motivation and completed the task ahead of schedule.
• His commitment to a healthy lifestyle has sustained his energy levels and overall well-being.

2. In The Context Of Support Or Maintenance:

• The organization relies on sustained funding to continue providing essential services to the community.
• Regular exercise and a balanced diet are crucial for sustaining good health.
• By implementing sustainable practices, the company aims to sustain the environment for future generations.

3. In The Context Of Legal Proceedings:

• The prosecution presented compelling evidence to sustain their case against the defendant.
• The defense lawyer’s arguments failed to sustain reasonable doubt in the minds of the jurors.
• The judge ruled that there was insufficient evidence to sustain the charges, leading to the defendant’s acquittal.

These examples illustrate the diverse ways in which the word “sustained” can be effectively utilized. Whether referring to endurance, support, or legal matters, its presence adds depth and clarity to the sentences. By incorporating this word into your writing, you can convey a sense of longevity, perseverance, and continuity.

Edge Cases Or Things To Consider

When it comes to using the word “sustained” in a sentence, there are a few edge cases and things to consider. While it may seem like a straightforward word, there are common mistakes people make and cultural or regional differences that can affect its usage. Let’s explore these aspects to ensure you can confidently incorporate “sustained” into your writing.

Common Mistakes People Make When Using Sustained

While “sustained” is a fairly common word, there are a few common mistakes that people often make when using it in a sentence. By being aware of these mistakes, you can avoid them and enhance the clarity and effectiveness of your writing.

• Misuse of verb tense: One common mistake is using the wrong verb tense with “sustained.” Remember that “sustained” is the past tense and past participle form of the verb “sustain.” Ensure that you use it correctly in relation to the timeline of your sentence. For example, instead of saying, “He sustains the injury,” it should be “He sustained the injury.”
• Confusing “sustained” with “maintained”: Another mistake is using “sustained” interchangeably with “maintained.” While both words imply a continuous action, “sustained” specifically refers to the continuation of something over time, while “maintained” suggests the act of keeping something in a particular state or condition. Be mindful of the distinction between these two words to avoid confusion.
• Overusing “sustained”: It’s important to use “sustained” judiciously and only when it accurately conveys the intended meaning. Overusing the word can lead to repetition and dilute its impact. Consider alternative words or phrases that convey a similar sense of continuity or longevity.

Cultural Or Regional Differences

Language is influenced by culture and geography, and the usage of words can vary across different regions or cultures. This is also true for the word “sustained.” It’s essential to be aware of these cultural or regional differences to ensure your usage of “sustained” aligns with the intended audience or context.

In some cultures, the concept of sustained effort or perseverance may hold greater significance, leading to more frequent usage of the word. On the other hand, certain regions may have alternative words or phrases that convey a similar idea. Researching the cultural and regional nuances can help you tailor your writing appropriately.

Moreover, idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms can impact the usage of “sustained” in different regions. It’s important to understand these nuances to avoid any misunderstandings or misinterpretations when using the word in a sentence.

By considering these edge cases and being mindful of common mistakes and cultural or regional differences, you can effectively incorporate “sustained” into your writing, ensuring clarity and precision in your communication.

Synonyms Or Alternates To Use

When it comes to expressing the concept of “sustained” in a sentence, there are several synonyms or alternate words that can be effectively used. Each of these alternatives carries its own nuances and subtle differences in meaning or usage, making them suitable for specific contexts. Let’s explore four such synonyms:

1. Enduring

One possible substitute for “sustained” is the word “enduring.” While both words convey the idea of something lasting over time, “enduring” emphasizes the ability to withstand and persevere through challenges or difficulties. It implies a sense of strength and resilience, suggesting that the subject can withstand the test of time or adversity.

Example: “Despite facing numerous setbacks, the artist’s enduring passion for painting led to a remarkable body of work.”

2. Prolonged

The term “prolonged” is another synonym that can be used interchangeably with “sustained.” However, “prolonged” specifically emphasizes the length of time or duration of an action or state. It implies a continuation beyond what is considered normal or expected.

Example: “The prolonged drought in the region has had a devastating impact on the local agricultural industry.”

3. Continuous

“Continuous” is a synonym that highlights the uninterrupted nature of an action or state, similar to “sustained.” It suggests that something is ongoing without any breaks or interruptions, emphasizing the smooth flow or unbroken sequence.

Example: “The continuous rain showers throughout the day made it challenging to plan outdoor activities.”

4. Persistent

“Persistent” is another word that can be used in place of “sustained.” It conveys the idea of something lasting or continuing despite obstacles or opposition. It implies a determined effort or unwavering commitment to achieving a particular outcome.

Example: “His persistent dedication to his studies allowed him to overcome obstacles and achieve academic success.”

While these synonyms can often be used interchangeably with “sustained,” the choice of one over the other depends on the specific context and the desired emphasis. Here is a summary of the preferred contexts for each synonym:

Synonym	Preferred Contexts
Enduring	Emphasizing resilience and perseverance
Prolonged	Highlighting an extended duration
Continuous	Emphasizing uninterrupted flow or sequence
Persistent	Conveying determination and unwavering commitment

Related Phrases Or Idioms

When it comes to incorporating the word “sustained” into phrases or idioms, the English language offers a few interesting options. These expressions not only add color and depth to our conversations but also provide a unique way to convey the concept of continuity or lasting impact. Let’s explore some of these related phrases and idioms below:

1. Sustained Applause

Meaning: This phrase refers to a continuous and enthusiastic clapping or applause that lasts for an extended period of time. It signifies appreciation, admiration, or approval for someone or something.

Example sentence: The actor’s exceptional performance received sustained applause from the audience, demonstrating their deep admiration for his talent.

2. Sustained Effort

Meaning: When we talk about sustained effort, we are referring to a consistent and prolonged exertion of energy or dedication towards achieving a particular goal. It implies a continuous commitment and perseverance.

Example sentence: Through sustained effort and unwavering determination, she successfully completed her Ph.D. despite facing numerous challenges along the way.

3. Sustained Growth

Meaning: Sustained growth refers to a continuous and steady increase or expansion over a prolonged period. It often indicates a positive and stable development in various aspects, such as business, economy, or personal progress.

Example sentence: The company’s strategic investments and strong leadership have resulted in sustained growth year after year, positioning them as a market leader.

4. Sustained Success

Meaning: When we talk about sustained success, we are referring to a long-lasting and consistent achievement or triumph. It implies maintaining a high level of accomplishment over an extended period of time.

Example sentence: The athlete’s disciplined training regimen and unwavering focus have contributed to her sustained success in the world of professional sports.

5. Sustained Pressure

Meaning: Sustained pressure denotes a continuous and unrelenting force or influence exerted on someone or something. It suggests a persistent effort to achieve a desired outcome or create an impact.

Example sentence: The opposition team applied sustained pressure on the defense, making it challenging for them to regain possession of the ball.

These phrases and idioms incorporating the word “sustained” allow us to express the idea of continuity, persistence, and lasting impact in a concise and impactful manner. By incorporating them into our language, we can effectively convey the desired meaning while adding depth and richness to our communication.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the correct usage of the word “sustained” holds significant importance in effective communication. By understanding its meaning and applying it appropriately, individuals can enhance the clarity and precision of their sentences. The ability to use “sustained” correctly allows for the expression of duration, continuity, and support in a variety of contexts.

As with any language skill, practice is key to mastery. I encourage readers to actively incorporate “sustained” into their own sentences to solidify their understanding and familiarity with this versatile term. By doing so, individuals can elevate their writing and speaking abilities, demonstrating a command of nuanced vocabulary and conveying their ideas with greater impact.