to support
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to support
To actively support an idea, plan, or project and speak in favor of it. Expresses clear approval and promotion.
Die Bürgerinitiative befürwortet den Ausbau der Radwege in der Stadt.
The citizens' initiative supports the expansion of bike paths in the city.
The verb is made up of 'be-', 'für' (for), and 'Wort' (word). Literally, it means to put in a good word for something and thereby support it.
Sie legte bei ihrem Chef ein gutes Wort für mich ein.
She put in a good word for me with her boss.
'Befürworten' (to support) is an inseparable verb and always requires a direct object in the accusative. You always support 'etwas' (something).
Der Stadtrat befürwortet den neuen Bebauungsplan.
The city council supports the new development plan.
This word belongs to formal language. It is often found in political debates, official documents, and written language.
In ihrer Rede befürwortete die Ministerin die Reform.
In her speech, the minister supported the reform.
Typically, abstract things are supported, for example 'einen Plan' (a plan), 'einen Vorschlag' (a proposal), 'eine Maßnahme' (a measure), or 'eine Gesetzesänderung' (a change in the law).
Ich befürworte deinen Vorschlag, die Arbeitszeiten flexibler zu gestalten.
I support your proposal to make working hours more flexible.
to support
'unterstützen' and 'befürworten' are close in meaning when it comes to ideas, plans, or projects. 'befürworten' means that you are clearly in favor of something and speak positively about it. 'unterstützen' can also mean that, but it can additionally mean active help, for example with work, money, or organization. 'befürworten' fits especially well in discussions or when decisions are being made. 'unterstützen' fits when help or active involvement is important in addition to agreement.
Ich befürworte mehr Busse am Abend, weil viele Menschen spät arbeiten.
I support having more buses in the evening because many people work late.
Vor dem Termin unterstützen wir den Vorschlag mit neuen Zahlen.
Before the meeting, we support the proposal with new figures.