The expression "are upheld" is spelled as /ɑːr ˈʌphɛld/ in phonetic transcription. It is a passive form of the verb "uphold," which means to maintain or support a particular position or decision. The word "are" is pronounced as /ɑːr/, with a long vowel sound. The "e" in "upheld" is silent, and the stress falls on the second syllable, pronounced as /ˈʌphɛld/. This expression is commonly used in legal contexts to indicate that a previous decision or ruling is still valid and has not been overturned.
"Are upheld" is a verb phrase that expresses the action of supporting, maintaining, or defending something, usually a principle, idea, belief, regulation, or standard. When something is "upheld," it means that it is maintained or sustained, often through the confirmation or reinforcement of its validity, truth, legality, or correctness.
In a broader sense, when principles, values, or ideas "are upheld," it implies that they are respected, preserved, and followed, even in the face of opposition, criticism, or challenges. Upholding something also involves defending it against any threats, attacks, or attempts to change or nullify it. This action is usually undertaken to ensure the continuity, integrity, or adherence to a particular objective, code of conduct, or system.
Furthermore, when laws, policies, or regulations "are upheld," it means that they are enforced, complied with, and implemented according to the intended spirit or letter. Upholding legal matters often involves interpreting and applying the laws impartially, fairly, and objectively.
Overall, the phrase "are upheld" signifies the act of safeguarding, sustaining, and promoting the recognized value, validity, or legitimacy of a specific entity, rule, or concept by reinforcing and maintaining its expanse, authority, and influence.
The phrase are upheld does not have a standalone etymology, as it is composed of two separate words: are and upheld.
1. Are: The word are is the second person plural form of the verb to be in the present tense. Its origin can be traced back to Old English as eart, which evolved to are in Middle English. The exact etymology of be or are is uncertain but is believed to have roots in the Proto-Germanic word esan.
2. Upheld: The word upheld is the past participle form of the verb to uphold. It consists of the prefix up- and the word held. The prefix up- denotes an upward movement or strengthening, while held is the past tense form of the verb to hold, derived from Old English healdan.