B2verb2K

Sponsor

UK /["/ˈspɒnsə(r)/","/ˈspɒnsəz/","/ˈspɒnsəd/","/ˈspɒnsərɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈspɑːnsər/","/ˈspɑːnsərz/","/ˈspɑːnsərd/","/ˈspɑːnsərɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to pay the costs of a particular event, programme, etc. as a way of advertising

In simple words: A person or company that supports an event or project, often with money.

Examples

  • The company decided to sponsor the local charity event this year.
  • They are looking for someone to sponsor their research project.
  • As a sponsor, you will gain visibility in the community.
  • We need a sponsor for our school sports team to help cover costs.
  • The athlete was grateful for the brands that chose to sponsor her career.

Usage notes

Used in contexts related to events, scholarships, or initiatives. More common in business and formal settings rather than casual conversation. Avoid using in informal contexts where other phrases like 'backer' might fit better.

Grammar pattern

sponsor + object

Memory hint

Think 'Sponsor sounds like 'sponsor your fun' at a sports event or show.

Collocations

  • major sponsor
  • sponsor a program
  • sponsor an event
  • corporate sponsor

Synonyms

  • supporter
  • backer
  • patron
  • donor

Antonyms

  • withdrawer
  • abandoner

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'sponsee', which refers to the person or organization being sponsored.
  • Using 'sponsor' as a verb incorrectly (should be 'to sponsor').
  • Assuming all sponsors provide the same level of support.