Lobby
UK /["/ˈlɒbi/"]/US /["/ˈlɑːbi/"]/
Definition
a large area inside the entrance of a public building where people can meet and wait
In simple words: A large waiting area in a building, often near the entrance.
Examples
- a hotel lobby
- He was waiting for me in the lobby of the hotel.
- The **gun lobby** is/are against any change in the law.
- organized opposition from the business lobby
- a recent lobby of Parliament by nurses
- Many groups have together mounted a lobby against cuts in hospitals.
- Residents have organized a lobby for improved local facilities.
Usage notes
Used mainly when referring to public spaces in buildings like hotels or offices. In a political context, it means to try to persuade lawmakers.
Grammar pattern
lobby + object (e.g., lobby a bill)
Memory hint
Think of a 'lobby' as a 'large open waiting area,' where people can chat before their appointments.
Collocations
- powerful
- strong
- anti-abortion
- form
- organize
- group
- organization
- lobby against
- lobby for
Synonyms
- pressure group
Antonyms
- backroom
- private area
Common mistakes
- Confused with 'lobby' (waiting area) vs 'lobbying' (political persuasion)
- 'Lobby' used incorrectly in singular form without context (e.g., referring to multiple areas)
- Using 'lobby' as a verb without proper context (e.g., confusing with 'lobbing')