Grammar fix

shore up

strengthen or support (especially something weak or failing)

to make something stronger or more secure, especially when it is weak, failing, or in danger of collapsing (often used figuratively for organizations, arguments, confidence, etc.)

phrasal verbC1occasional

Hear it in context

Notice where the phrase sounds natural.

The government announced new measures to shore up the struggling healthcare system.work
In my view, investing in teacher training is essential to shore up the quality of education in rural areas.IELTS speaking

Fix the pattern

Pattern: shore up + noun

WrongThey tried to shore up of the economy.

RightThey tried to shore up the economy.

'Shore up' takes the object directly — no 'of'.

Patternshore up + noun

Use it right

Choose the version that sounds natural in speech.

Stiff The government intervened to reinforce the failing banking sector.

Natural The government stepped in to shore up the banks.

'Shore up' is the natural figurative verb for propping something up; 'reinforce the failing sector' is heavier.

Build natural chunks

Words that usually travel with it.

shore up + weak thing
supportconfidencethe economydefences

Don't confuse it

The basic, literal sense (physically supporting a wall or structure) is less common. This advanced sense is figurative, used for things like arguments, systems, or feelings that need extra support.

Try it in Daily Speak →