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sustenance

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: //ˈsʌstə.nəns//

KK: /sʌstəˌnəns/

noun
Definition

Something that provides support or nourishment for life, especially food.


Example

The farmer worked hard to ensure there was enough sustenance for his family and animals.


Conversation
Sloth A
I was thinking about what we need for this weekend's camping trip.
Sloth B
Yeah, we should definitely plan for enough sustenance while we're out there.
Sloth A
Good point! I don't want to run out of food in the middle of nowhere.
Sloth B
Me neither! Let's make a list of everything we need to bring.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
nourishment
support
maintenance
Antonyms
deprivation
starvation
neglect
Root Explanation

Sustenance → It is formed from "sustinere" (from Latin, meaning to hold up or support) which combines "sub-" (meaning under) and "tenere" (meaning to hold). The word refers to that which supports or sustains life.

Memory Tip

Think of something that 'holds up' or 'supports' life — that's what sustenance means.

Visually Confused Words
nonsustenance
substance
subtenancy
purtenance
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