Sostengano

Sostengano is the third-person plural present subjunctive form of the Italian verb sostenere, meaning to support, uphold, or sustain. It is used in subordinate clauses that require the subjunctive mood, typically after verbs or expressions of doubt, possibility, necessity, desire, or emotion.

In Italian, the present subjunctive expresses attitudes toward what is spoken about rather than stating it as a fact. The form sostengano appears in clauses introduced by che, such as in sentences like: È importante che essi sostengano questa tesi. Spero che essi sostengano la proposta. The verb can also appear in indirect discourse or in contexts that reflect doubt or uncertainty about the action of supporting.

Etymology and related forms: sostenere, from Latin sustinēre or sustinēre, means to hold up, support, or endure. Sostengano is the plural form used for "they" in the present subjunctive; related singular forms include sostenga, used for third-person singular.

Usage notes: Sostengano, like other present subjunctive forms, is not used as an independent statement but as part of a larger clause that requires a hypothetical, desired, or uncertain nuance. It is common in formal writing, legal or philosophical prose, and in complex sentences expressing arguments or conditions.

See also: sostenere, sostegno, congiuntivo, Italian grammar.