Speaking as a proxy for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Speaking as a proxy for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when someone is representing or voicing the opinions or interests of another person or group. Example: "Speaking as a proxy for the committee, I would like to express our concerns regarding the proposed changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Inside the meeting, NUJ official Chris Morley, a shareholder speaking as a proxy for Trinity Mirror staff, quizzed the board about the total costs of the New Day project and whether "sacrifices" would have to be made across the publisher's UK operation as a result.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Speaking as a general, he offered a prescription for Sierra Leone.

The New York Times

Speaking as a father, he cheered parents.

The Economist

Speaking as a woman.

The Washington Post

The study used arrest records as a proxy for convictions.

The New York Times

An airline levy is mooted as a proxy for privilege.

The Guardian

It's using race as a proxy for crime".

The New Yorker

Most people use reputation as a proxy for integrity.

Harvard Business Review

Here, though, he was cast as a proxy for the liberalised baby boomer, a proxy for the audience.

The Guardian - Film

The fMRI readings served as a proxy for neuron firing.

University of California, Berkeley

So insurers are using age as a proxy for health.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context; if a more direct or commonly understood phrase like "representing" is sufficient, it might be preferable for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "speaking as a proxy for" in informal settings where simpler language is more appropriate. Opt for phrases like "representing" or "for" when the context doesn't require the formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "speaking as a proxy for" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a statement or opinion being voiced on behalf of another person or entity. It clarifies that the speaker is acting in a representative capacity. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of the phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

16%

Less common in

Academia

8%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "speaking as a proxy for" is a prepositional phrase used to indicate that the speaker is representing someone else's views or interests. While grammatically correct, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is relatively rare and best reserved for formal settings, like business or legal contexts. Alternatives like "representing" or "on behalf of" may be more suitable for everyday communication. When using this phrase, ensure the context warrants the level of formality it implies.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Representing

Directly states the act of representing someone.

On behalf of

Indicates acting in someone's interest or stead.

Speaking on behalf of

Similar to 'on behalf of' but emphasizes the act of speaking.

As a representative of

Formally denotes acting as an official representative.

Acting for

A more general term for performing actions in place of someone.

As a spokesperson for

Highlights the role of conveying a message for a group.

In the capacity of

Emphasizes the role or function one is fulfilling.

As an agent for

Highlights acting as an authorized agent.

Standing in for

Suggests temporarily replacing someone.

Voicing the concerns of

Specifically addresses expressing others' worries or issues.

FAQs

How can I use "speaking as a proxy for" in a sentence?

You can use "speaking as a proxy for" to indicate that you are voicing the opinions or representing the interests of another party. For instance, "Speaking as a proxy for the shareholders, I'd like to raise concerns about the company's direction".

What are some alternatives to "speaking as a proxy for"?

You can use alternatives like "representing", "on behalf of", or "as a representative of" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "speaking as a proxy for"?

It's appropriate to use "speaking as a proxy for" in formal settings or when you have been specifically designated to speak on behalf of someone else. This is common in business meetings, legal proceedings, or when conveying official positions.

What's the difference between "speaking as a proxy for" and "speaking on behalf of"?

While similar, "speaking as a proxy for" often implies a more formal or designated role, suggesting you're authorized to act in someone's place. "Speaking on behalf of" simply means you are expressing the views or concerns of others, without necessarily having a formal proxy.