C1nounformal3K

Ambassador

UK /["/æmˈbæsədə(r)/"]/US /["/æmˈbæsədər/"]/

Definition

an official who lives in a foreign country as the senior representative there of their own country

In simple words: A person who represents a country or a group in another place.

Examples

  • the British Ambassador to Italy/in Rome
  • a former ambassador to the UN
  • She served as a roving ambassador, with 51 trips to foreign countries by 2024.
  • The US ambassador was recalled to Washington in protest.
  • the Brazilian ambassador in London
  • He's a former ambassador to the UN.
  • The King sent an ambassador to Paris.
  • The best ambassadors for the sport are the players.

Usage notes

Used in diplomatic contexts or when discussing international relations. Not appropriate for casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

ambassador + of/from + place

Memory hint

Think of 'ambassadors' as 'a band of sirs' who represent their countries.

Collocations

  • former
  • British
  • French
  • act as
  • serve as
  • appoint
  • ambassador in
  • ambassador for
  • ambassador to

Synonyms

  • diplomat
  • envoy
  • representative
  • delegate
  • attaché

Antonyms

  • enemy
  • opponent

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'emissary' — both represent, but emissaries have less official power.
  • Incorrectly using 'ambassador' for individuals in non-diplomatic roles.
  • Using 'ambassador' as a verb; it's a noun only.