take up a cause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "take up a cause" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to the act of adopting or supporting a particular issue or movement, often for social or political reasons. Example: "After witnessing the impact of climate change, she decided to take up a cause and advocate for environmental protection."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Reference

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

The loss of their sons has prompted each of them to take up a cause.

The New York Times

Michelle Obama is sending missives and messages to unemployed youths that it's OK to take up a gun to take up a cause and to overturn society.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We had about 100 printed," she says, "and gave them as Christmas gifts". You can also take up a cause with a tag.

The Washington Post

But I am sure that there will be filmmakers who want to take up a cause like this and actually make a movie which speaks and reflects upon the demons of our society and certain people.

The New York Times

She was keen to take up a cause, and has become an advocate against child obesity and for military families, but she is more sceptical of politics than her husband.

The Economist

"Some of the fringe parties take up a cause they feel is important and not being addressed," said Ross K. Baker, a professor of political science at Rutgers University.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Once Ms. Colton takes up a cause, she doesn't rest until it has a headline.

The New York Times

Reed Abelson reports on celebrities who, for better or worse, have taken up a cause.

The New York Times

His 1.8 million followers retweet him avidly, and when Branson takes up a cause the effect is considerable.

Independent

Power to the media, for taking up a cause that legislators are placing low on their priority list.

The New York Times

She was soon to be reproached for greater daring, taking up a cause far more unpopular and antagonistic.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When you "take up a cause", be prepared to dedicate time and effort to understanding the issue thoroughly. Doing so lends credibility to your advocacy.

Common error

Avoid superficially "taking up a cause" without genuine commitment. Empty gestures can undermine your credibility and the cause itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "take up a cause" functions as a verb phrase indicating the commencement of active support or advocacy for a specific issue or belief. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable. Examples in Ludwig demonstrate its use in various contexts, emphasizing active involvement.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Reference

25%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "take up a cause" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe the act of actively supporting or advocating for a specific issue. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is usable in various contexts, with primary usage found in news, wiki and reference sources. Semantically related alternatives include "champion a cause" and "advocate for a cause". When using the phrase, it’s best to demonstrate a genuine commitment to the cause to maintain credibility. Avoid superficial involvement that could undermine your efforts and the cause itself.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

champion a cause

This alternative suggests a more active and prominent role in supporting a cause.

advocate for a cause

This emphasizes the act of publicly supporting or pleading for a cause.

support a cause

This is a more general term for providing assistance or encouragement to a cause.

embrace a cause

This implies a more enthusiastic and wholehearted acceptance of a cause.

dedicate oneself to a cause

This suggests a strong commitment and devotion to a particular cause.

get behind a cause

This is an idiomatic expression for supporting a cause.

fight for a cause

This implies a more active and combative approach to supporting a cause.

promote a cause

This emphasizes the act of raising awareness and support for a cause.

become an advocate

This focuses on assuming the role of a supporter or spokesperson for a cause.

throw your weight behind a cause

This idiomatic expression suggests lending significant support and influence to a cause.

FAQs

How can I use "take up a cause" in a sentence?

You can use "take up a cause" to describe someone who starts actively supporting a particular issue. For example, "After seeing the devastating effects of pollution, she decided to "take up a cause" and advocate for environmental protection."

What are some alternatives to saying "take up a cause"?

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

What does it mean to "take up a cause"?

To "take up a cause" means to begin to actively support or promote a particular principle, aim, or movement. It implies a conscious decision to dedicate time and effort to something one believes in.

Is it better to "take up a cause" or "support a cause"?

Both phrases are valid, but ""take up a cause"" suggests initiating active involvement, while "support a cause" can imply ongoing or passive assistance. The best choice depends on the specific context you're describing.