Spanish word

apoyar

Pronunciation

IPA/apoˈʝaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbsupport

Example

Apoya la escalera en la pared.

Support the ladder against the wall.

Illustration for apoyar (support)

More examples

Mis amigos siempre me apoyan cuando tengo problemas.

My friends always support me when I have problems.

Core concept

A hand on someone's shoulder.

Common phrases

  • apoyar a alguien

    support someone

  • apoyar una idea

    support an idea

  • apoyar la escalera en la pared

    lean the ladder against the wall

Similar words

ayudar: Assists with practical tasks or favors to reduce someone's workload.
animar: Gives enthusiasm and courage that inspires someone to try or act.
acompañar: Stays by someone's side, providing comfort through physical or emotional presence.
respaldar: Backs someone publicly or through actions, showing clear allegiance and support.

Definition in Spanish

Ofrecer ayuda, respaldo o apoyo moral a una persona o grupo.

Word origin

From Late Latin appodāre 'to place on a support', from ad- 'to' plus podium 'base', giving the sense of propping or backing.

Usage tips

  • Apoyar commonly means to back or give moral support (apoyar a alguien), while ayudar implies concrete help, and the reflexive apoyarse means to lean on or rely on.

Other meanings

  • leanverb
  • restverb

Opposites

Related words

  • apoyosupportnoun
  • apoyadosupportedadjective
  • apoyadorsupporternoun

Word lists with this word