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USF Posted 14 years ago
Vocabulary

endure

Could anybody please tell me if these three phrases mean the same? Which one is better? And explain why?
Thanks.

"friendships which endure over many years"
"friendships which go by over many years"
"friendships which withstand over many years"
  

Top answer

Only 'endure' works in that structure. 'Withstand' works this way: friendships which withstand many years -- but this suggests hardships which 'endure' does not. 'Go by' seems inappropriate in any sense here.

— Mister Micawber

  • Only 'endure' works in that structure.
  • 'Withstand' works this way: friendships which withstand many years -- but this suggests hardships which 'endure' does not.
  • 'Go by' seems inappropriate in any sense here.
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4 Answers
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Only 'endure' works in that structure.
'Withstand' works this way: friendships which withstand many years-- but this suggests hardships which 'endure' does not.
'Go by' seems inappropriate in any sense here.
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Thanks, but I though endure have more hardship and withstand is neutral.
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No. You have them reversed. 'Endure' can merely mean 'last for a long time'.
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Hmm. Thanks. I guess it is because withstand can be seen as with+stand, kind of expressing a loyalty to being with, in every conditions.
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