B1noun2K

Champion

UK /["/ˈtʃæmpiən/"]/US /["/ˈtʃæmpiən/"]/

Definition

a person, team, etc. that has won a competition, especially in a sport

In simple words: A person who wins something or supports a cause.

Examples

  • She is the champion of the national tennis tournament.
  • The local football team became the champion after an intense season.
  • He is a champion for equality and justice in his community.
  • Many animals have their own champion in the wild that leads them.
  • Winning the championship was a dream come true for the young athlete.

Usage notes

Use 'champion' when discussing a winner in sports or competitions. It can also refer to someone who fights for a cause, but avoid it in very casual conversations.

Grammar pattern

champion + object

Memory hint

Think of a 'champion' as someone holding up a trophy high, celebrating victory.

Collocations

  • great
  • supreme
  • true
  • become
  • be crowned
  • be named
  • defend her/​his title
  • fighter
  • jockey
  • sprinter

Synonyms

  • winner
  • titleholder
  • hero
  • advocate
  • defender

Antonyms

  • loser
  • defeated

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'championship' which refers to the competition itself.
  • Using as a verb instead of a noun; 'to champion' is correct but not always recognized.