What is supporter? Pronunciation and usage in English

supporter means . Learn how to pronounce and use supporter through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of supporter

supporternoun

/səˈpɔːtə/
Definition & pronunciation of supporter

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "supporter." Here's a breakdown with phonetic transcriptions and tips:

Phonetic Transcription (IPA): /sʌpˈrɔːtər/ (This is the most accurate way to represent the sound)

Breakdown:

  • sʌp: This part sounds like "sup" as in "soup." The "u" is a short "u" sound.
  • ˈrɔːt: This is the stressed syllable (the one you emphasize). It's broken down like this:
    • rɔː: This sounds like “raw” but with a longer “a” sound – almost like “ow” as in “cow”. The "r" is a rolled "r" (more on that below).
    • tər: This sounds like "ter," as in "better."
  • ər: This is a schwa sound - a very short, neutral "uh" sound. It’s like the "a" in "about".

Tips for Pronunciation:

  • The Rolled "R": This is key! In American English, the "r" sound in "supporter" is typically a rolled "r". This means your tongue briefly touches the roof of your mouth as you pronounce the "r". It's a quick, light tap. Don't try to force a hard "r" sound like in "red." You can find videos online demonstrating how to roll your "r" if you're not familiar with it.
  • Stress: Make sure you emphasize the second syllable ("ˈrɔːt"). This is what gives the word its rhythm.
  • Vowel Sounds: Be careful with the vowel sounds. “raw” is important.

Listen to Examples:

The best way to learn is to hear it! Here are some resources:

  • Google Translate: Go to Google Translate, type "supporter," and click the speaker icon to hear a native speaker pronounce it.
  • Forvo: https://forvo.com/word/supporter/ – This website allows you to hear pronunciations from native speakers from different regions.
  • YouTube: Search "how to pronounce supporter" on YouTube to find videos demonstrating the pronunciation.

To help me tailor the explanation further, would you like:

  • To hear an audio clip (if possible)?
  • More detail on how to roll your “r”?

Usage and examples with the word supporter in English

Let's break down how to use the word "supporter" in English. It has several different meanings and ways you can incorporate it into your speech and writing.

1. As a Person Who Supports Something (Most Common Usage)

This is the most frequent way "supporter" is used. It refers to someone who actively backs or encourages a person, team, cause, or organization.

  • Examples:
    • "She's a big supporter of local charities." (She donates, volunteers, etc.)
    • "The team needs more supporters to attend the games." (People who show up and cheer.)
    • "He's a devoted supporter of the Red Sox." (He consistently follows and cheers for the team.)
    • "As a supporter of environmental causes, I signed the petition." (She believes in and actively advocates for the cause.)
    • "The company relies on its supporters for fundraising events."

2. As a Member of a Group or Organization

Often used to describe someone who is formally part of a group dedicated to a particular cause.

  • Examples:
    • "He’s a supporter of the Wildlife Conservation Society." (He's a member and contributes to the organization.)
    • "She joined the supporters’ club for the football team." (She's a member of an official group that supports the team.)

3. (Less Common) As a Person Giving Financial Support

This usage emphasizes the act of donating money.

  • Example:
    • "The foundation received generous donations from its supporters." (People who gave money to the foundation.)

4. Figurative Usage – Enthusiastic Backer

Sometimes, "supporter" is used more broadly to describe someone who is particularly enthusiastic about something, even if they aren’t formally involved.

  • Example:
    • "He’s a huge supporter of independent filmmakers." (He loves and promotes their work.)

Here’s a breakdown of how it functions grammatically:

  • Noun: "Supporter" is primarily used as a noun – referring to the person.
    • Example: “Jane is a passionate supporter.”
  • Adjective (Rare): It can be used as an adjective, usually to describe something that receives support. This is less common.
    • Example: "The organization relies on supporter contributions." (Meaning: contributions from supporters). It’s usually clearer to just say “supporter contributions”.

Tips for Using "Supporter" Effectively:

  • Context is key: Pay attention to the surrounding words to understand exactly what someone is supporting.
  • Consider stronger words: Sometimes, words like "fan," "advocate," "backer," or "champion" might be more descriptive, depending on the situation.

Do you want me to:

  • Give you more examples in a specific context (e.g., sports, charity, politics)?
  • Explain how "supporter" compares to other similar words (e.g., "fan," "advocate")?
  • Help you write a sentence using "supporter"?

Synonyms for the word supporter

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