campaign
kam-PAYN
/kæmˈpeɪn/
A series of planned activities or organized efforts intended to achieve a specific social, political, or commercial goal.
Unlike a single advertisement, a campaign is a cohesive, multi-step strategy with a clear start and end date.
The story behind the word. Originally a military term, 'campaign' referred to the time an army spent 'in the field' (the campus) during a specific season of fighting. In the 18th century, the term was borrowed by politics and later business to describe organized 'battles' for public attention.
Word relationships
- initiative: An initiative is broader and might not have the same structured, competitive edge as a campaign.
- drive: A drive is usually more focused on a single goal, like a 'blood drive' or 'fundraising drive'.
- inactivity: The total lack of organized effort.
Commonly confused with
- promotion: A promotion is a specific offer (like 20% off), while a campaign is the entire strategic plan to communicate that offer.
Word family
- campaigner (noun): A person who leads or takes part in a campaign.
Collocations
- launch a campaign
- marketing campaign
- advertising campaign
- ad campaign
Idioms & expressions
- whispering campaign
Example sentences
- "The 'Think Small' campaign for the Volkswagen Beetle is often cited as the best advertising effort of the 20th century." A classic marketing textbook example.
- "We are launching a three-month social media campaign to promote the new sustainable packaging." Corporate strategy.
Memory hook
Think of a 'camp' in the 'pain' of battle; a campaign is a long, organized struggle to win over customers. A campaign is a 'battle plan' for your brand.
When not to use
Do not use for a single, isolated action; it implies a sustained, organized effort.
Fun facts
- The word 'campus' (university grounds) shares the same root as campaign.
Also appears in
- Law → Advocacy & Legal Activism
- Political Science & Governance → Civil Society & Grassroots Movements
- Media, Journalism & Publishing → Advertising & Consumer Influence
- Political Science & Governance → Pressure Groups & Lobbying
- Hobbies, Crafts & Leisure → Video Gaming & Consoles
- Student Life & Schooling → Student Government & Elections
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