a staunch defense of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a staunch defense of" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a strong and unwavering support for a particular idea, belief, or position. Example: "The author presents a staunch defense of freedom of speech in her latest book."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Janet L. Yellen, the Fed's vice chairwoman, on Saturday used the study to offer a staunch defense of the program, which is supposed to last through June.

The New York Times

With criticism of the police infusing the Democratic race to succeed him, Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg on Tuesday offered a staunch defense of the New York Police Department, as well as a spirited attack against its critics.

The New York Times

Although it contains several episodes that are presented as treatments for never-to-be-produced screenplays, "City of God" mounts a staunch defense of literature against the movies: "The literary experience extends impression into discourse.

The New York Times - Books

In a six-page letter to Senator Edward M. Kennedy, chairman of the education committee, Ms. Spellings offered a staunch defense of the department's practices and its oversight of the student loan industry.

The New York Times

Mr. Obama gave a staunch defense of his administration's actions to rein in Iran's nuclear ambitions and said tough sanctions put in place by the United States and Europe were starting to work and were part of the reason Iran had returned to the negotiation table.

The New York Times

Taylor's book is both a paean to American resourcefulness and a staunch defense of the New Deal, but, despite the author's admiration, F.D.R., with his top-hatted optimism and patrician eloquence, comes off as an anachronism, while Hoover, in his cynicism ("The world lives by phrases") and naïveté ("Nobody is actually starving"), looks modern by comparison.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

Kentucky (30-6) kepaceace for the first 10 minutes with a staunch defense.

The New York Times - Sports

However, after a staunch defense, he was able to break the Russian siege.

Wikipedia

By taking his forcefulness to an extreme (witness his staunch defense of his position), he degraded it.

Harvard Business Review

a statement formally apologizing for his staunch defense of the work of a former researcher in his laboratory, Thereza Imanishi-Kari.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Monique's staunch defense of a Jewish shopkeeper, Monsieur Marks John Littlee), has put her at odds with Henri.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a staunch defense of" to emphasize a resolute and unwavering support for an idea, person, or cause, particularly when facing opposition or criticism. For example, "The politician offered a staunch defense of the new policy during the debate".

Common error

While "a staunch defense of" effectively conveys strong support, it can sound overly formal or stiff in casual conversation. Opt for more natural alternatives like "strong support for" or "firm backing of" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a staunch defense of" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a verb or preposition. It describes a strong and unwavering support or justification for something. Ludwig examples showcase its use across varied contexts, aligning with its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Academia

1%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a staunch defense of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to describe a strong and unwavering support for something. As shown in Ludwig, its usage spans across various contexts, but is most common in news and media. While Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical accuracy, remember that this phrase carries a degree of formality, making it less suitable for casual settings. Consider using alternative phrases like "strong support for" or "firm backing of" in informal contexts. The phrase's strength lies in its ability to convey an unyielding commitment to a cause or position.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a vigorous defense of

Replaces "staunch" with "vigorous", emphasizing the energy and forcefulness of the defense.

a robust defense of

Substitutes "staunch" with "robust", highlighting the strength and resilience of the defense.

a strong advocacy for

Replaces "defense" with "advocacy", shifting the focus to active support and promotion.

a firm endorsement of

Changes "defense" to "endorsement", emphasizing approval and backing.

unwavering support for

Rephrases the concept as "unwavering support", highlighting the steadfastness of the backing.

resolute backing of

Uses "resolute backing" to convey a determined and firm support.

adamant championing of

Employs "adamant championing" to stress an unyielding and active advocacy.

passionate defense of

Replaces "staunch" with "passionate", highlighting the emotional intensity behind the defense.

an assertive justification of

Shifts from defense to "justification", suggesting a reasoned explanation and strong assertion.

an unflinching upholding of

Conveys a sense of unwavering commitment to maintaining or defending something.

FAQs

How can I use "a staunch defense of" in a sentence?

You can use "a staunch defense of" to describe a firm and unwavering support for something. For example, "The lawyer presented "a staunch defense of" his client in court".

What can I say instead of "a staunch defense of"?

You can use alternatives like "strong advocacy for", "firm endorsement of", or "unwavering support for" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "a staunch defense of"?

It's appropriate to use "a staunch defense of" when you want to emphasize the strength and unwavering nature of the support. It is often used in formal or serious contexts, such as political debates, legal proceedings, or academic discussions.

Is there a difference between "a staunch defense of" and "a passionate defense of"?

Yes, "a staunch defense of" implies a firm and unwavering support, while "a passionate defense of" suggests a defense filled with strong emotion and enthusiasm. The choice depends on whether you want to emphasize the firmness or the emotional intensity of the defense.