Idioms & Phrases – Choose the option that best explains the meaning in context. Sentence: He is always “standing up for” the weak and oppressed.

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Championing the cause of

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The phrasal verb “stand up for” is a common idiom in contemporary English that means to defend or champion someone or something, especially those who are vulnerable or being treated unfairly. In the sentence, the subject consistently supports “the weak and oppressed,” so we must capture the sense of active defense and advocacy rather than mere association or seeking assistance.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • The highlighted expression is “standing up for.”
  • The beneficiaries are “the weak and oppressed,” implying a moral stance.
  • We need an option that reflects active defense or advocacy.


Concept / Approach:
“Stand up for” means to support, defend, or advocate the rights and interests of someone. It goes beyond passive sympathy; it implies taking a position against injustice. Therefore, the best paraphrase will include the idea of championing a cause rather than simply moving with someone or asking others for help.


Step-by-Step Solution:

Isolate the idiom: “stand up for” → defend/advocate.Check the object: “weak and oppressed” calls for moral support and advocacy.Match with options: “Championing the cause of” explicitly encodes advocacy.Eliminate distractors: boosting claims (promotional tone), seeking help (asks others), moving about with (mere companionship).


Verification / Alternative check:
Substitute: “He is always championing the cause of the weak and oppressed.” This preserves meaning and improves formal tone, proving the equivalence.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

  • Boosting the claims of: Sounds like marketing rather than moral defense.
  • Seeking help of others for: Focuses on asking others, not personally defending.
  • Moving about with: Means accompanying; no advocacy implied.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing companionship or publicity with genuine advocacy. “Stand up for” centers on defending rights and confronting unfairness.


Final Answer:
Championing the cause of

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