support
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support
An object or structural element that holds up, supports, or stabilizes something else in order to keep it from falling over or collapsing.
Die Decke des alten Tunnels wird von massiven Betonpfeilern als Stütze gehalten.
The ceiling of the old tunnel is held up by massive concrete pillars as supports.
support
A person who gives someone else stability, help, or comfort, especially in difficult times.
In der schweren Zeit nach dem Unfall war ihre Familie ihre größte Stütze.
During the difficult time after the accident, her family was her greatest support.
welfare / benefits
Colloquial for state financial support for unemployed people or people in need.
Seit er seinen Job verloren hat, lebt er von der Stütze.
Since he lost his job, he has been living on benefits.
The noun 'die Stütze' (support) is derived from the verb 'stützen' (to support). A 'Stütze' is therefore something or someone that has a supporting function.
Der verletzte Sportler muss sich auf eine Krücke stützen.
The injured athlete has to support himself on a crutch.
You can recognize the meaning from the context: if it is about structures or objects, the physical support is meant. If it is about people and feelings, it is emotional support. If it is about money from the state, financial support is meant.
Die Brücke braucht eine neue Stütze aus Stahl.
The bridge needs a new steel support.
When a person is a 'Stütze' (support), this is often expressed with the preposition 'für' (for). The person receiving help is in the accusative.
Ihre Kollegen waren in den ersten Wochen eine große Stütze für sie.
Her colleagues were a great support for her during the first few weeks.
The meaning 'state financial support' is colloquial. In formal or official texts, terms like 'Arbeitslosengeld' (unemployment benefit) or 'Sozialhilfe' (social assistance) are used instead.
Er hat Angst, seinen Job zu verlieren und dann von der Stütze leben zu müssen.
He is afraid of losing his job and then having to live on benefits.
support
Both words can refer to financial help for people in need. Unterstützung is neutral and general, whereas Stütze is colloquial in this sense and refers to state assistance. In a factual text about financial support, Unterstützung is usually the better choice; in everyday speech, Stütze can highlight that the assistance comes from the state.
Nach dem Verlust seiner Arbeit ist er vorübergehend auf staatliche Stütze angewiesen.
After losing his job, he temporarily depends on state benefits.
Die Familie erhält finanzielle Unterstützung für die steigenden Wohnkosten.
The family receives financial support to help with rising housing costs.
