B2noun1K

Representative

UK /["/ˌreprɪˈzentətɪv/"]/US /["/ˌreprɪˈzentətɪv/"]/

Definition

a person who has been chosen to speak or vote for somebody else or for a group of people, or to take the place of somebody else

In simple words: Someone who speaks or acts for a group.

Examples

  • The congressman is a representative of the people in his district.
  • She was chosen as a representative for the student council.
  • The company's representative spoke about their new product line at the conference.
  • In art, a representative piece captures the essence of a particular style.
  • He gave a representative sample of the materials used in the project.

Usage notes

Use 'representative' when discussing someone who acts on behalf of others, like in politics or organizations. It may not be appropriate for informal conversations.

Grammar pattern

representative + of + group

Memory hint

Think of 'rep' as in 'representative' — a friend who 'reps' or supports a group.

Collocations

  • chief
  • leading
  • main
  • appoint
  • appoint somebody (as)
  • choose (somebody as)
  • attend something
  • vote
  • body
  • representative for
  • representative from
  • representative of
  • chief
  • leading
  • main
  • appoint
  • appoint somebody (as)
  • choose (somebody as)
  • attend something
  • vote
  • body
  • representative for
  • representative from
  • representative of

Synonyms

  • delegate
  • agent
  • spokesperson
  • advocate
  • proxy

Antonyms

  • follower
  • subordinate

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'representing' as a verb.
  • Using in singular form when referring to multiple representatives.
  • Mispronouncing the first syllable.