Patronage: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when referring to the support given, often financially, by someone in a higher position or status; can sometimes have a negative connotation implying superiority.

• The artist received patronage from the wealthy noble.
• Under the senator's patronage, numerous cultural projects were launched.

Used when referring to financial support provided for a project, event or person, often in return for promotion or advertisement.

• The sports event received sponsorship from several major companies.
• The musician's tour was made possible through sponsorship by a local business.

Used when referring to support, especially financial or authoritative, typically provided by an individual or organization that can influence the outcome.

• The new startup was successful thanks to the backing of several investors.
• She secured backing from the committee for her new proposal.

Used when referring to help or assistance, particularly in a practical or financial sense; often used in humanitarian or emergency contexts.

• The government provided aid to the victims of the hurricane.
• Medical aid was sent to the remote village.

Used when describing the support provided by a patron, such as a benefactor, towards a person, organization, or cause. It is often neutral but can have a slightly negative connotation if the support seems unfair.

• The artist's career flourished under the patronage of a wealthy noble
• The company secured the project through the patronage of influential politicians

Applied broadly to situations where someone shows unfair preference towards a person or group over others. This term often carries a negative implication.

• The teacher was accused of favoritism when she gave extra points to students on the soccer team
• Workplace favoritism can lead to decreased morale among employees

Refers to the practice of giving jobs or advantages to relatives, often within a business or political context. This is considered negative as it undermines merit and fairness.

• The CEO's decision to appoint his nephew to a senior position was widely considered an act of nepotism
• Nepotism in politics can damage public trust in government institutions

Used specifically to describe the practice of favoring close friends, especially in political contexts. This term has a negative connotation as it implies corruption or unfair advantage.

• The administration faced allegations of cronyism after several unqualified friends were appointed to key positions
• Many believe that the corporation's success is a result of cronyism rather than merit