What is another word for were upheld?
Pronunciation: [wɜːɹ ʌphˈɛld] (IPA) 
The phrase "were upheld" can be replaced by several synonyms. "Were sustained" and "were maintained" are two options that convey the idea that a decision or ruling was supported and validated after careful review. "Were affirmed" suggests that an appeal or challenge to the decision was made and ultimately unsuccessful. Another option is "were declared valid," which emphasizes the fact that the decision was legally sound and upheld by the appropriate authorities. "Were ratified" and "were backed up" also carry similar meanings. It's important to choose the appropriate synonym for context and tone when conveying the outcome of a decision.
