Meaning 1
A person who actively defends, promotes, or advances someone or a cause.
Reach for it when praising advocacy that goes beyond private agreement
Dara became a champion for apprentices who lacked professional networks.
Meaning 2
The winner who has prevailed in a contest or field.
Reach for it when naming someone whose victory or leading record is central
The regional champion thanked the volunteers before lifting the trophy.
| Meaning 1 | Meaning 2 | |
|---|---|---|
| everyday |
| |
| warm |
| |
| professional | ||
| formal | ||
| literary |
everyday
Fits when protection from criticism or harm is central
Careful Defender is too reactive when the person is building new opportunities.
warm
Fits when solidarity with another group matters most
Careful An ally may support quietly without leading or campaigning.
professional
Fits when public support and argument are the main actions
Careful An advocate need not take the personal risks implied by a devoted champion.
literary
Fits when the person visibly represents a larger cause
Careful The ceremonial grandeur is awkward for modest behind-the-scenes help.
everyday
Fits when the simple result of a contest is enough
Careful Winner lacks the sustained excellence associated with a recognized champion.
professional
Fits when a formally awarded competitive title is relevant
Careful It does not fit an informal victory or someone whose title has expired.
formal
Fits when you want elevated emphasis on prevailing
Careful Victor sounds martial or dramatic for a friendly local contest.
champion for
He became a champion for safer crossings near schools.
defending champion
The defending champion practiced with the youngest entrants.
world champion
The world champion used her speech to praise her first coach.
Definitions and examples are written for this site. How words are chosen Recording: Dvortygirl, American accent, from Wikimedia Commons, CC BY-SA 3.0 Updated
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