approval / support
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approval
Positive response, popularity, or demand that a person, event, or product receives.
Das neue Restaurant findet bei den Anwohnern großen Zuspruch.
The new restaurant is receiving great approval from the local residents.
'Zuspruch' (approval/support) derives from the verb 'zusprechen' (to award, grant, or speak encouragingly to someone). It is a combination of 'zu' and 'Spruch' (from 'sprechen' (to speak)). The basic idea is that something is 'zugesprochen' (granted/spoken to someone) — either agreement (popularity) or comfort (encouraging words).
Seine Idee fand bei den Kollegen sofort Zuspruch.
His idea immediately found approval among his colleagues.
'Zuspruch' (approval/support) is an uncountable noun and is almost always used in the singular without an article. Instead, it is combined with adjectives such as 'viel' (much/a lot of), 'groß' (great), 'wenig' (little), or 'kein' (no).
Die Veranstaltung erhielt großen Zuspruch aus der Bevölkerung.
The event received great approval from the public.
When 'Zuspruch' (approval) means popularity or positive response, it is often combined with the verbs 'finden' (to find/receive), 'erfahren' (to experience/receive), or 'bekommen' (to get). The subject is then usually a thing, an idea, or an event.
Das neue Theaterstück findet beim Publikum breiten Zuspruch.
The new play is receiving broad approval from the audience.
When 'Zuspruch' (support) means comfort or encouragement, the typical verbs are 'geben' (to give), 'bekommen' (to get), or 'brauchen' (to need). In this context, it is usually about a person in a difficult situation.
In dieser schweren Zeit braucht sie den Zuspruch ihrer Familie.
In this difficult time, she needs the support of her family.
support
'Unterstützung' and 'Zuspruch' can both help when someone is unsure, sad, or nervous. 'Unterstützung' is broader and can be practical help, money, or moral support. 'Zuspruch' mainly means friendly, encouraging, or comforting words. The words can be confused because 'Zuspruch' is a form of 'Unterstützung'. When someone actively helps out, 'Unterstützung' fits better. When someone gives encouragement or comfort, 'Zuspruch' is more precise.
Nach dem Fehler tat Anna der Zuspruch ihrer Freundin gut.
After the mistake, Anna felt better because of her friend's encouragement.
Vor der Prüfung bekam Mehmet viel Unterstützung von seiner Lerngruppe.
Before the exam, Mehmet received a lot of support from his study group.