advocates

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "advocates" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to someone who strongly supports a particular cause or group of people, such as a political issue. For example: "The politician is an advocate for social justice and equal rights."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Thirteen support Nihon Kaigi, a nationalist think-tank that advocates a return to 'traditional values' and rejects Japan's 'apology diplomacy' for its wartime misdeeds.

The New York Times

The hearing was deemed by refugee advocates and lawyers representing the asylum seekers as a victory.

The Guardian

As that "someone" is generally governments and authorities introducing rules and regulations, this seems to put some "free market" advocates in a quandary.

The Guardian

Those powers expired with key provisions of the Patriot Act at 12.01am on Monday amid a showdown between defense hawks and civil liberties advocates.

The Guardian

Many Australians would feel ashamed and embarrassed that their country was lagging behind other English-speaking countries if Ireland's voters endorse same-sex marriage in this week's referendum, advocates said on Thursday.

The Guardian

Refugee advocates said the substandard conditions in PNG's Manus Island detention centre, the very high crime rates in the country and "daily pervasive human rights abuses" were evidence the new arrangements contravened Australia's basic obligations to help refugees who come here.

The Guardian

Refugee advocates criticised the amount of time that elapsed between spotting the boat and sending vessels to intercept it after the deaths were revealed.

The Guardian

The fossil fuel industry continues to utilise the revolving lobby door where high ranking government officials and politicians step out from years navigating the inner workings of government to land jobs as advocates and lobbyists.

The Guardian

Advocates for criminalisation will argue that "prostituted persons" (a despicable term that denies our agency) will be decriminalised under the new proposals.

The Guardian - Opinion

One possible response: dismantle or at least shrink the eurozone to such an extent that rules become credible (even though advocates of a "neuro", a northern eurozone, tend to forget that "northern" chancellor Gerhard Schröder, in alliance with France and Italy, was instrumental in first weakening the rules in 2005).

The Guardian - Opinion

Yet the widely expected passage of the the USA Freedom Act later this week will mark a more permanent victory for advocates of surveillance reform: a ban on the NSA hoovering up the telephone records of American citizens.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "advocates", clearly state what the person or group is advocating for to avoid ambiguity. For example, "The organization advocates for environmental protection".

Common error

Avoid using "advocates" as a generic term for anyone who supports something. Be specific about their role and the intensity of their support. Using more precise language like "supporters", "champions", or "proponents" can add clarity and nuance to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The word "advocates" functions as both a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to individuals or groups who publicly support a cause. As a verb, it signifies the act of publicly recommending or supporting something. Ludwig AI confirms this dual functionality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

3%

Reference

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the term "advocates" is a versatile word functioning as both a noun and a verb, commonly used to express support for a cause or policy. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage in written English, particularly in news, formal, and scientific contexts. While alternatives such as "champions" or "proponents" exist, "advocates" maintains a neutral yet professional tone. Remember to clearly specify what is being advocated for, and avoid overuse by considering more precise synonyms to enhance clarity and nuance in your writing. As shown by the frequency of examples in news and media, it's a term often found in discussions of current events and policy debates.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

champions

Emphasizes a more active and prominent role in defending and promoting something.

proponents

Suggests a more formal and intellectual endorsement of an idea or cause.

promoters

Focuses on actively encouraging the adoption or spread of something.

supporters

Indicates backing or approval, often without the active promotion implied by "advocates".

defenders

Implies protecting something from attack or criticism.

exponents

Highlights the act of explaining and interpreting an idea or belief.

upholders

Indicates maintaining or preserving a principle or tradition.

boosters

Suggests enthusiastic support and promotion, often in a commercial context.

pleaders

Emphasizes making a formal appeal or argument on behalf of someone or something.

crusaders

Implies a passionate and determined fight for a cause, often against strong opposition.

FAQs

How do I use "advocates" in a sentence?

You can use "advocates" to describe people or groups who publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy. For example, "Environmental "activists" often act as "advocates" for sustainable practices".

What's the difference between "advocates" and "supporters"?

"Advocates" typically take a more active and vocal role in promoting a cause, while "supporters" may simply agree with or back a cause without actively promoting it. "Champions", on the other hand, often take a leadership role.

What can I say instead of "advocates"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "champions", "proponents", or "supporters". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "advocates" as a verb?

Yes, "advocates" can be used as a verb, meaning to publicly recommend or support a particular policy or cause. For example, "The politician advocates for tax reform."