# lobbyist

/ˈɫɑbiəst/ (US) · /lˈɒbɪˌɪst/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lobbyist
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

someone who is paid to talk to government leaders and try to influence their decisions. They usually work for a specific group or company to help change laws.

For teachers: a person who takes part in an organized attempt to influence legislators or government officials on behalf of a specific interest group. Often associated with corporate or non-profit advocacy.

## Examples

- The lobbyist met with the senator to discuss new environmental laws.
- A professional lobbyist for the tech industry spent weeks explaining the benefits of the new bill to committee members.
- While some view the role of a lobbyist as essential for informing policy, others argue that it grants disproportionate political power to wealthy special interest groups.

## Usage notes

- Often followed by the preposition 'for' to indicate the group being represented.

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