bolster up
B2 neutral separable transitive
In simple words
To give extra support to something or someone to make them stronger or more confident.
Literal meaning: To prop something up with a bolster (a long cylindrical pillow used for support).
Meanings
1 B2 neutral
To support or strengthen someone's confidence, morale, or a weakened position.
"The coach gave an inspiring speech to bolster up the team's confidence before the final."
Grammar: separable
2 B2 neutral
To add evidence or arguments to make a claim, case, or position stronger.
"They brought in new data to bolster up their argument during the debate."
Grammar: separable
Usage notes
'Bolster' alone is just as common as 'bolster up'; the particle 'up' is often considered optional and does not significantly change the meaning. Common in political and business journalism. Typically used with abstract objects: confidence, position, economy.
Commonly used with
confidence morale argument position economy support
Forms
Base
bolster up
I/you/we/they
3rd person
bolsters up
he/she/it
Past simple
bolstered up
yesterday
Past participle
bolstered up
have + pp
-ing form
bolstering up
continuous
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Synonyms
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