advocate
AD-vuh-kayt
/ˈæd.və.keɪt/
To publicly recommend or support (verb); a person who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy (noun).
As a verb, it implies active support. As a noun, it often refers to someone who speaks on behalf of another, like a lawyer.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'advocatus', which literally means 'one called to aid'. In ancient Rome, an advocatus was a friend called to stand by a person in court.
Word relationships
- proponent: Proponent is more formal and often refers to someone who proposes a specific theory or plan.
- champion: Champion implies a more heroic or vigorous defense of a cause.
- opponent: An opponent actively works against a cause.
- critic: A critic expresses disapproval rather than support.
Commonly confused with
- lawyer: While all advocates in court are lawyers, not all lawyers act as public advocates for causes.
Word family
- advocacy (noun): Public support for or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.
Collocations
- fierce advocate
- advocate for change
- patient advocate
- devil's advocate
Idioms & expressions
- Devil's advocate
Example sentences
- "The group advocates for the rights of indigenous people." Social justice
- "She worked as a legal advocate for children in the foster care system." Legal representation
Memory hook
An advocate is 'called' (voc) 'to' (ad) help someone. Advocate = Add your voice to a cause.
When not to use
Do not use 'advocate' for simple agreement; it requires an element of public or active promotion.
Fun facts
- In many countries, 'Advocate' is the official title for a lawyer, similar to 'Barrister' in the UK.
Explore more words
advocacy, champion, endorse, agitate, endorsement, vociferous
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