champion - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
champion Word Meanings
- a person who fights on behalf of others
- the winner of a competition
- to support or defend a cause
champion Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
champion Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈtʃæm.pi.ən/
US
/ˈtʃæm.pi.ən/
champion Word Etymology
champion = campion + -on (one who) → Latin 'campio' (fighter) → Old French 'champion' → English. Imagine a brave knight defending a castle, representing someone who stands up for the weak.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
Feet planted, I push off and move toward the line. Breath steadies, my hands adjust the grip and I shift my weight as the moment tightens. The effort hums through my arms and I keep my nerve, choosing what to do next. That choice to stand up for someone or a cause is what makes a champion show up in real life.
Real Context
Champion is not only a winner; it also describes someone who takes a stand or fights for others. In everyday English, you hear phrases like 'the champion of the underdog' or 'to champion a cause.' Historically a champion was a knight defending a castle; today the term often refers to someone who publicly supports a policy or group. The verb form 'to champion' emphasizes advocacy rather than victory, so you might say 'She champions equal rights' rather than 'She wins equal rights.' The concept blends courage, leadership, and commitment: a person who stands up for others, whether in a contest or in social issues.
Usage Reminders
- Remember champion has two jobs: winning or advocating.
- Do not confuse 'to champion' with simply 'to win.'
- Use 'champion' with causes, and 'champion' as a winner in sports contexts.
- Watch collocations: champion of the underdog; champion a policy; champion the rights of others.
- In phrases, keep subject and object clear: 'She champions victims' rights' (not 'She champions the rights of victim').
Common Misconceptions
- Champions are only people who win contests.
- To champion a cause means you must be the best at something.
- The verb champion is interchangeable with 'win' in all contexts.
- A champion is always the team captain or leader.
- Etymology is irrelevant to modern usage.
Thinking Differences
English uses champion as both a winner and a proactive advocate; learners must recognize the verb form as advocacy, not just victory.
Learning Tips
- Practice both noun and verb forms in sentences.
- Note collocations: champion a cause, champion the rights of others.
- Differentiate contexts: sport (winner) vs social advocacy.
- Pair with verbs like defend, support, promote for clarity.
- Watch pronouns align with the agent (she, he, they).
- Avoid overgeneralizing to imply victory in non-competitive speech.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'champion'?
A.Winner
B.Loser
C.Beginner
D.Coward
Step 2: Usage
In what context is the word 'champion' commonly used?
A.Sports competitions
B.Cooking recipes
C.Gardening tips
D.Musical performances
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is the opposite of 'champion'?
A.Quitter
B.Novice
C.Average
D.Loser
Step 4: Opposite Words
Real-life context: In a basketball tournament, the team who wins the final game and receives the trophy is considered the ________.
A.Underdog
B.Referee
C.Champion
D.Spectator
Step 5: Mastery
Can you use the word 'champion' in a sentence to describe someone who excels in their field?
A.His hard work and dedication made him a champion in the business world.
B.She never tries hard enough to be a champion in anything.
C.The champion of the race finished last.
D.The champion of the competition quit halfway.
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
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