English Vocabulary — Choose the best synonym (same meaning). Target word: champion

Introduction / Context:
The word “champion” most commonly functions as a noun meaning “winner” (the champion of a tournament). It can also be a verb meaning “to support/advocate.” In exam settings without sentence context, the intended sense is typically the noun “winner.” Among the given options, we must choose the closest meaning available.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• Target: champion.
• Options: running, swimming, winning, speaking, supporting.
• No sentence context is provided; treat as a general vocabulary item.

Concept / Approach:
Look for an option that captures “one who wins” or, secondarily, “victorious.” “Winning” (as a gerund/adjective) is closer to “victorious/winner” than specific sports (running, swimming) or unrelated actions (speaking). Note: “supporting” matches the verb sense of champion, but exams typically prioritize the more frequent noun sense unless otherwise specified.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Paraphrase: “She is the champion of the league.” → closest from options: “She is the winning player of the league.” Though “winner” would be ideal, “winning” is the nearest available choice in meaning.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• running, swimming: types of events, not the outcome/status “champion.”
• speaking: unrelated.
• supporting: fits the verb sense “to champion,” but the common exam default is the noun sense “winner.”

Common Pitfalls:
Confusing the verbal sense (to champion = to support) with the standard noun sense; picking a sport instead of the winning status.

Final Answer:
winning