patronage
- 01 C1 Advanced
the support, especially financial, that a wealthy person or group gives to an artist, musician, or charity.
the financial support or social influence provided by a patron to an individual, organisation, or cause, historically central to the arts.
Simple“The museum was built thanks to the generous patronage of a local family.”
In context“Without the continued patronage of the royal family, many of the era's most significant composers would have lacked the resources to complete their masterpieces.”
Synonyms - 02 C1 Advanced
the support you give to a shop, hotel, or restaurant by being a regular customer there.
the support or custom provided by a regular client base; the collective body of customers (clientele).
Simple“The restaurant thanked its loyal guests for their patronage over the last ten years.”
In context“The boutique hotel struggled to maintain its high level of patronage after a larger international chain opened a competing property nearby.”
- 03 C1 Advanced
the power to give jobs or special favours to people in return for their political support.
the power to control appointments to office or the right to privileges, often used to reward political allies.
Simple“The governor was accused of using political patronage to help his friends get jobs.”
In context“The reform aimed to dismantle the long-standing system of patronage that allowed senior officials to appoint unqualified relatives to administrative positions.”
SynonymsAntonymsmeritocracy - 04 C2 Proficiency
a way of speaking or behaving that shows you think you are better or smarter than others.
a communication or demeanour that indicates a lack of respect through condescension or a superior attitude.
Simple“She was offended by the tone of patronage in his voice when he explained the rules.”
In context“The expert's patronage was evident in the way he dismissed the junior researcher's findings without reviewing the raw data.”
Synonyms
“Seven charities, including the Teenage Cancer Trust and children’s hospice, have also cut ties and revoked Ferguson’s patronage due to her links with Epstein.”
“Nigeria’s party system is highly fluid with personalities, patronage networks and local political structures often proving more important than ideology.”
From Middle English patronage, from Old French patronage (modern French patronage). Equivalent to patron + -age. Piecewise doublet of patternage.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.