be a proponent of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be a proponent of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing support or advocacy for a particular idea, cause, or policy. Example: "She has always been a proponent of environmental sustainability and actively promotes green initiatives."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

And if the United States is going to be a proponent of a free press, it has to walk the walk".

The New York Times

"Whatever his function, there is no excuse for a police officer on official business to be a proponent of domestic violence or other violence against women.

The New York Times

Should we take Hillary Clinton to be a proponent of an assertive American foreign policy, based on the positions she took on Kosovo and Iraq?

The New York Times

I don't think he was trying to be racist – I think he was trying to be a proponent of law and order".

The Guardian

"Here in Missouri, Jay seemed to be a proponent of confrontation and almost invited litigation to decide issues that could have been resolved in the General Assembly or through compromise".

The New York Times - Health

At first sight it seems strange that a proponent of the claim in (1) can also be a proponent of the harm principle.

SEP

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

But Maimonides was a proponent of rationalism.

The New Yorker

I am a proponent of boobyliciousness.

The New Yorker

(Guthrie was a proponent of adobe architecture).

The New Yorker

Carmichael was a proponent of group rights; Thomas is a proponent of individualism.

The New Yorker

AARP has also been a proponent of the law.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be a proponent of", ensure that the subject clearly demonstrates active support or advocacy through concrete actions or statements. Don't just state support; show it.

Common error

Avoid using "be a proponent of" loosely when the evidence of active support is weak or nonexistent. Ensure your writing provides specific examples to justify the claim.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be a proponent of" functions as a predicative expression, indicating active support or advocacy for a particular cause, idea, or policy. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and usable.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be a proponent of" is a grammatically correct phrase used to express active support or advocacy for a particular idea or cause. While relatively formal, it's versatile enough for news, academic, and professional settings. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a valid and useful expression. Remember to use this phrase when you want to emphasize active and deliberate support, not just passive agreement. If you need alternatives, consider using "advocate for" or "support actively" for similar meanings. Make sure the context clearly shows support through actions or statements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be an advocate of

This alternative is very similar, simply replacing "proponent" with "advocate".

advocate for

This alternative is a more concise and direct way of expressing support.

be a supporter of

This alternative replaces the term 'proponent' with the word 'supporter', suggesting a less formal endorsement.

support actively

This alternative emphasizes active endorsement and backing.

champion the cause of

This alternative implies a strong and dedicated defense of a particular cause.

promote vigorously

This alternative highlights the energetic and forceful promotion of something.

stand for

This alternative indicates a commitment to and belief in something.

endorse wholeheartedly

This alternative implies a complete and enthusiastic agreement with something.

espouse the principles of

This alternative suggests an adherence to and promotion of specific principles.

push for

This alternative is a more informal way to express active support and effort toward achieving something.

FAQs

What does it mean to "be a proponent of" something?

To "be a proponent of" something means to actively support and advocate for it. It suggests a deliberate and vocal endorsement of an idea, cause, or policy.

What are some alternatives to saying "be a proponent of"?

You can use alternatives like "advocate for", "support actively", or "champion the cause of", depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "be a proponent of"?

The phrase "be a proponent of" is relatively formal and suitable for academic, professional, or news-related contexts. In more casual settings, simpler alternatives might be preferred.

Is it correct to say "became a proponent of" instead of "be a proponent of"?

Yes, "became a proponent of" is grammatically correct. It indicates a change in position, where someone transitioned into supporting or advocating for something.