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Campaign

kam-PAIN /kæmˈpeɪn/

nounverbB1GRESATTOEFLIELTS

generalpolitical

An organized, planned series of operations or activities designed to achieve a specific political, social, or commercial goal.

Implies a structured, goal-directed push over a defined period with clear milestones.

The story behind the word. Originally a military term from Latin 'campus' (field). Armies would leave winter quarters to conduct military operations in the open countryside ('campania') during summer months. By the 18th century, the metaphor shifted to political 'campaigns'.

Word relationships

drive: A drive is often short-term and focused on gathering resources, while a campaign is broader.
crusade: A crusade carries strong moral intensity, whereas campaign is standard organizational terminology.

inactivity: Lack of organized action or effort.

Commonly confused with

election: An election is the voting event itself, while a campaign is the organized effort leading up to it.

Word family

campaigner (noun): A person who actively works for a political or social goal.
campaigning (noun): The act of taking part in an organized campaign.

Collocations

political campaign
launch a campaign
campaign strategy
campaign manager

Idioms & expressions

on the campaign trail
run a tight ship

Example sentences

"The presidential campaign spanned eighteen months and included stops across fifty states." Electoral politics
"Health authorities launched a public awareness campaign encouraging annual vaccinations." Public health initiative

Memory hook

Armies take to the FIELD (campus) to launch a military or political CAMPAIGN. A coordinated push on the political battlefield.

When not to use

Do not use for a single isolated speech or brief unorganized effort.

Fun facts

The Italian region of Campania shares the exact same root because of its rolling open plains.