支撑 zhīchēng to prop up
to prop up; to support; strut; brace
How to remember 支撑: 支 branch + 撑 to support = to prop up.
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How it is used
- To prop up / bear the weight, literally or figuratively - 支撑屋顶 (zhīchēng wūdǐng) support the roof, 支撑家庭 (zhīchēng jiātíng) hold up the family, 支撑不住 (zhīchēng bú zhù) can't hold on any longer.
- Emphasizes physically or emotionally bearing a load under strain; also a noun (a brace/strut).
- Contrast 支持 (zhīchí, support/back mentally or morally); 支撑 is about load-bearing endurance.