Partisan: meaning, definitions and examples

This word is often used when someone shows strong, biased support for a particular party, cause, or person, often to the point of being unwilling to consider other opinions. It can have negative connotations when used to describe someone who is overly biased and unwilling to compromise.

• She was known as a partisan of the environmental movement.
• His partisan views on the matter made it difficult to have a balanced discussion.

This is a general term for someone who supports a person, idea, or cause. It is slightly more neutral and less intense than words like 'advocate' or 'champion'.

• He is a long-time supporter of the local football team.
• Many supporters gathered outside the courthouse to show their approval.

This word is used to describe a person who follows or supports a leader, cause, or idea. It often implies a strong, but possibly thoughtful, loyalty.

• He is a strict adherent of the new policies.
• As an adherent of the minimalist lifestyle, she avoids owning too many possessions.

This term is often used in formal or legal contexts to describe someone who publicly supports or recommends a particular cause or policy. It suggests active and public support.

• She has long been an advocate for children's rights.
• He advocates for better working conditions in his company.

Use this word to describe someone who fights or argues for a cause or on behalf of someone else. It usually has a strong and positive connotation, suggesting heroism or exceptional effort.

• She is a champion of women's education.
• As a champion of free speech, he often speaks out against censorship.

Typically describes a member of a group or organization dedicated to influencing political ideology or supporting a certain cause, often during wartime or in political conflicts.

• The partisan group was determined to overthrow the oppressive regime.
• During the war, partisan units conducted operations behind enemy lines.

Describes a member of a small independent group taking part in irregular fighting, usually against larger regular forces, often using hit-and-run tactics.

• The guerrilla fighters launched an unexpected attack on the military base.
• Living in the mountains, the guerrillas used their knowledge of the terrain to their advantage.

Refers to someone who takes part in a resistance movement against an oppressive regime, often seen as a more positive and heroic term compared to 'insurgent' or 'guerrilla.'

• Nelson Mandela is often remembered as a freedom fighter who battled apartheid.
• The freedom fighters vowed to continue their struggle for independence.

Specifically refers to someone who actively participates in a resistance movement fighting against an occupying force or oppressive government, often during wartime.

• The resistance fighters carried out sabotage missions to undermine the occupying forces.
• During World War II, many resistance fighters risked their lives to liberate their countries.

Describes someone who takes part in an armed rebellion against a constituted authority, often carrying a slightly negative connotation, implying illegitimacy or unlawfulness.

• The government struggled to suppress the insurgent forces in the north.
• The insurgents are believed to have received external support to fuel their rebellion.