raise a banner

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "raise a banner" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to signify the act of promoting a cause, idea, or movement, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "The activists decided to raise a banner for environmental protection during the rally."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

They raise a banner of "equal access".

The New York Times

"Come and raise a banner.

The Guardian

Just getting to this point is nothing to raise a banner about and say that we accomplished something".

The New York Times - Sports

The crowd appeared to be mostly receptive to his speech, although one or two students were kicked out for trying to raise a banner that mentioned white supremacy.

The New York Times

For the thinking sports citizen, beaten down by the corporate adultery of team-stealing owners and the preening of certain national soccer teams, it's not easy to raise a banner without an asterisk.

The New York Times

The protesters rarely manage to raise a banner long enough for anyone to read it, and they are whisked away in the blue-and-white police vans that cruise around the square for that purpose.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

For Providence, there is much more at stake than raising a banner in the gymnasium.

The New York Times - Sports

Lazio fans raised a banner aimed at rival Roma supporters declaring, Black squad, Jewish home end.

The New York Times - Sports

We weren't just raising a banner: our plan was to disrupt a pipeline extension in the port of Vancouver.

The Guardian

They had raised a banner near National Stadium with "Free Tibet" spelled out in lights in English and Chinese.

The New York Times - Sports

No matter who wins, millions of fans will be very happy no matter which city raises a banner.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "raise a banner" in writing, consider the context and ensure that it aligns with the intended meaning of promoting a cause or displaying a message. This phrase is most effective when the visual image of a banner enhances the message.

Common error

Avoid using "raise a banner" in contexts where a literal banner would be out of place. Instead, consider using alternative phrases like "champion a cause" or "promote an idea" when the visual element is not essential.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "raise a banner" is verbal, acting as a verb phrase that describes the action of displaying or promoting something, often a cause or belief. This aligns with examples in Ludwig, where it signifies taking a public stand.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "raise a banner" is a grammatically correct expression signifying the public display of support or protest. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. While not overly common, it's found primarily in news and media contexts. Semantically related alternatives include "hoist a flag" and "launch a campaign". A key writing guidance tip is to ensure the context aligns with the visual imagery of a banner. Expert analysis rates the phrase as reliable, noting its established use in authoritative sources. Therefore, "raise a banner" can be effective in writing when the visual representation of a banner enhances the meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hoist a flag

Replaces "banner" with "flag", implying a more formal or symbolic display.

put up a flag

A simpler, more direct alternative using "flag" instead of "banner".

display a sign

Substitutes "banner" with "sign", suggesting a simpler and potentially less formal display.

unfurl a standard

Uses "standard" instead of "banner", evoking a more traditional or military context.

put up a poster

Employs "poster" instead of "banner", indicating a less formal and often temporary display.

wave a placard

Replaces "raise" with "wave" and "banner" with "placard", suggesting a more active and protest-oriented display.

carry a streamer

Substitutes "banner" with "streamer", implying a more festive or celebratory display.

brandish a pennon

Uses "pennon" instead of "banner", suggesting a smaller, more pointed flag, often associated with heraldry.

launch a campaign

Shifts the focus from a physical banner to the broader act of advocating for something.

champion a cause

Emphasizes the active promotion of an idea rather than the display of a banner.

FAQs

What does it mean to "raise a banner"?

To "raise a banner" means to publicly display support for a cause, idea, or group. It often implies a visual demonstration of solidarity or protest.

What can I say instead of "raise a banner"?

You can use alternatives like "hoist a flag", "display a sign", or "launch a campaign" depending on the context.

Is "raise a banner" a formal or informal expression?

"Raise a banner" is generally considered a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, the specific context and surrounding language can influence its perceived formality.

How do you use "raise a banner" in a sentence?

You can use "raise a banner" to describe an action of support or protest, such as: "The activists decided to "raise a banner" for environmental protection during the rally."