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How to Say "i support" in Spanish

The most common Spanish word for “i support” is “apoyo” — use 'apoyo' when you are offering general agreement, backing, or aid to a plan, idea, or person..

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apoyo

ah-POY-oh/aˈpoʝo/

verbA1general
Use 'apoyo' when you are offering general agreement, backing, or aid to a plan, idea, or person.
A large human hand gently cupping and stabilizing a small, wobbly flower pot so it does not fall over.

Examples

Yo apoyo tu plan cien por ciento.

I support your plan one hundred percent.

Siempre me apoyo en mis amigos cuando estoy triste.

I always lean on my friends when I am sad. (Note: uses the reflexive form 'apoyarse')

Reflexive Form: Apoyarse

When you use 'apoyarse,' it means you are physically leaning on something or relying on someone for help (like leaning on a wall, or relying on family).

Leaning on vs. Supporting

Mistake: “Using 'apoyar' when you mean 'soportar' (to tolerate or bear weight).”

Correction: 'Apoyar' is usually emotional/political support or leaning. To say 'The column supports the roof', use 'soportar'.

acompaño

/a-kom-PA-nyo//akomˈpaɲo/

verbB2general
Use 'acompaño' to express moral or emotional support, often by showing solidarity or empathy.
An illustration showing one figure standing next to a sitting, sad figure and gently placing a hand on their shoulder in a comforting stance, symbolizing emotional support.

Examples

En este momento difícil, acompaño a la familia con mis pensamientos.

In this difficult time, I support the family with my thoughts.

Yo siempre acompaño las decisiones de mi equipo, aunque sean arriesgadas.

I always back up my team's decisions, even if they are risky.

Emotional Use

When used figuratively, 'acompaño' emphasizes shared experience or solidarity, often translated as 'I stand with' or 'I offer my support to'.

mantengo

/man-TEN-go//manˈtenɡo/

verbB1general
Use 'mantengo' specifically when you are providing financial or material sustenance for someone, like a family.
An adult hand placing a large bowl of fresh fruit and a loaf of bread on a table for a child.

Examples

Mantengo a mi familia con mi sueldo.

I support my family with my salary.

Using 'a' with people

When you say you support a person, always put the word 'a' after mantengo (e.g., 'Mantengo a mi hermano').

soporto

so-POR-toh/soˈpoɾto/

verbB1general
Use 'soporto' when you are physically holding up a weight or structure, or enduring something difficult.
A sturdy character using their arms and back to hold up a massive, heavy structure, demonstrating physical support.

Examples

Yo no soporto el peso de esta caja solo.

I don't support the weight of this box alone (I can't hold it up myself).

La columna que yo pongo soporta toda la estructura.

The column that I place holds up the entire structure.

aguanto

/a-GWAHN-toh//aˈɣwan.to/

verbB1general
Use 'aguanto' for the physical act of holding something steady, like a door, or enduring a situation.
A simplified cartoon hand firmly grasping a large, bright red apple, demonstrating holding an object.

Examples

Aguanto la puerta para que puedas pasar.

I hold the door so you can pass.

Yo aguanto el peso de la maleta, no te preocupes.

I'll support the weight of the suitcase, don't worry.

Physical vs. Emotional

While both meanings relate to 'holding,' use this definition when you are literally using your strength to prevent something from falling or moving.

Emotional vs. Physical Support

Learners often confuse 'apoyo' (general backing) with 'acompaño' (emotional solidarity). Remember that 'apoyo' is for ideas and plans, while 'acompaño' is for feelings and empathy. Also, be careful not to confuse 'soporto' or 'aguanto' (physical holding/endurance) with these.

Related Translations

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