keen defender

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keen defender" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is very enthusiastic and passionate about defending a particular cause, idea, or individual. Example: "As a keen defender of environmental issues, she dedicates her time to advocating for sustainable practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

She is also a keen defender of the BBC's independence and understands the media, having been economics editor of The Independent for eight years and, formerly, a regular presenter on BBC Radio 4's Analysis.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Derby County are closing in on a deal to sign out-of-favour Aston Villa forward Andreas Weimann, and are also keen on Reading defender Alex Pearce, BBC Radio Derby reports.

BBC

A high pass from Keen followed, striking defender Clarke in the back, from which the Albion defence were forced to clear.

Wikipedia

The defender was keen to venture forward and twice caused Hearts concern in the first half.

The Guardian - Sport

Cole seems to agree: 'I've seen [Roberto] Carlos get it.' In addition to Chelsea, Real Madrid and Barcelona head a host of top European clubs who are keen to sign the defender.

The Guardian - Sport

Liverpool had considered offering Touré a coaching role but the defender is keen to extend his playing career as long as possible and could now get a lucrative deal as a free agent.

The Guardian - Sport

Conte is keen to sign a defender, a striker and a reserve goalkeeper before the window shuts next week and the Italian sees Romagnoli as a long-term replacement for John Terry.

The Guardian - Sport

David Moyes' final signing as Everton manager still had four years remaining on his initial 5½-year contract but Martínez was keen to reward the defender's emergence with improved terms.

The Guardian - Sport

McCoist is still keen to sign Bosnian defender Boris Pandza on top of another goalkeeper and striker.

BBC

The Reds are also keen to sign Southampton defender Dejan Lovren but have had a £20m bid rejected.

BBC

Rangers are keen to tie the defender, who can also play in midfield, to a new long-term deal.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "keen defender", ensure the context clearly indicates what or whom the person is defending. Specificity strengthens the impact of the phrase.

Common error

Avoid using "keen defender" excessively in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more nuanced terms like "staunch advocate" or "dedicated supporter" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "keen defender" is as a descriptive phrase, where "keen" modifies the noun "defender". It acts as an adjective-noun combination to describe someone who is enthusiastic and active in their defense, according to Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "keen defender" describes someone enthusiastic about defending a particular cause or person. Ludwig AI indicates it's grammatically correct but relatively rare. While acceptable in news and general contexts, more formal alternatives like "staunch supporter" or "dedicated advocate" may be preferable in academic or professional settings. Remember to specify what or whom the "keen defender" is protecting to enhance clarity. By understanding its nuances and appropriate contexts, you can effectively use "keen defender" in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ardent advocate

Focuses on active and enthusiastic support.

staunch supporter

Highlights unwavering loyalty and backing.

vigorous proponent

Emphasizes energetic and forceful advocacy.

dedicated protector

Stresses commitment to safeguarding someone or something.

zealous champion

Implies passionate and enthusiastic defense.

resolute guardian

Highlights firmness and determination in protecting.

fervent advocate

Focuses on intense enthusiasm in advocating.

loyal defender

Stresses allegiance and faithfulness in defense.

passionate supporter

Highlights intense emotion in backing.

unwavering advocate

Emphasizes steadfast and consistent support.

FAQs

How can I use "keen defender" in a sentence?

You can use "keen defender" to describe someone who strongly supports or protects something. For instance, "She is a keen defender of the BBC's independence."

What's a more formal alternative to "keen defender"?

In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "staunch supporter" or "dedicated advocate", which convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What does it mean to be a "keen defender" of something?

To be a "keen defender" means you are very enthusiastic and active in protecting or supporting a particular cause, idea, or person.

Is "keen defender" appropriate for all types of writing?

While "keen defender" is generally acceptable, it may sound slightly informal in academic or highly professional writing. Choose alternatives like "vigorous proponent" for such contexts.