Words / B2

up-HOHLD/ʌpˈhəʊld/

To uphold is to support a decision, law, or principle and keep it in force: uphold a ban; uphold a conviction; uphold standards. Confirm is weaker; overturn is an opposite in appeals. Hold up means delay — a mix-up. Appeal courts uphold or quash.

Meaning

To support a decision, law, or principle and keep it in force.

Examples

• “The appeal court upheld the original sentence.”
• “Inspectors said the school had failed to uphold safeguarding standards.”

Good to know

uphold a decision / conviction / standards. Appeals: uphold vs overturn / quash. Mix-up: hold up (delay). Weaker: confirm. Legal/professional register.

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