advocacy

Public support for a person, idea, or plan, often by arguing for it.

• Her advocacy helped change the law.
• The group is known for its advocacy of equal pay.
• His public advocacy for cleaner transport attracted support.

How to use it: advocacy of something (Her advocacy of school reform won support.); advocacy for someone/something (The charity promotes advocacy for children’s rights.)

Similar words: support, promotion

Opposites: opposition

Common phrases: advocacy for something, advocacy of something, environmental advocacy

Helping people express their wishes and defend their interests when others might ignore them.

• The hospital offers patient advocacy.
• Independent advocacy helped him explain his wishes.
• She provides advocacy for people with learning difficulties.

How to use it: advocacy for someone (The service provides advocacy for older people.)

Similar words: representation, support

Common phrases: independent advocacy, patient advocacy, advocacy services

The work of a lawyer who speaks for people in court.

• He chose a career in advocacy.
• Her training prepared her for courtroom advocacy.
• Advocacy requires clear speech and careful preparation.

Similar words: legal practice

Common phrases: career in advocacy, legal advocacy, practise advocacy