speak up in favor of something or push for it

advocate

verb|/ˈæd.və.keɪt/

To publicly support or recommend something

Examples

In a meeting

I'll advocate for additional budget in tomorrow's meeting.

Over coffee

I always advocate for trying the local restaurants when traveling.

Why this word

support

Support is general approval or backing; advocate implies active, public promotion and arguing in favor of a cause or policy

recommend

Recommend suggests proposing something as advisable; advocate conveys stronger conviction and more vigorous championing of a position

promote

Promote can mean simply publicizing or advancing; advocate specifically involves defending or pleading the case for something, often against opposition

Usage tip

Use when actively promoting or supporting a cause, not passive agreement

Etymology

Latin: advocatus (one called to aid), from ad- (to) + vocare (to call)

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