English

philanthropist

gb/fɪlˈænθɹəpɪst/ us/fɪlˈænθɹəpɪst/
C1 English
Senses
0 senses
Noun formal C1 role
1

person who gives to help others

A philanthropist is a person who gives money or help to support charities and improve other people’s lives.

Usage pattern: [someone] is a philanthropist; philanthropist + who/known for [activity]
Common mistake:
Do not confuse with humanitarian (which can include non-financial help, especially in crises) or philanthropism/philanthropy (the activity, not the person).
Synonyms
benefactor (Often emphasizes giving to a particular person, institution, or project.) | donor (More general; can be anyone who gives, even a small amount.) | patron (Often used for someone who financially supports the arts or a specific cause over time.)
Antonyms
miser (Someone who hates spending or sharing money.) | skinflint (Informal; someone extremely unwilling to spend or give money.)
Collocations
wealthy philanthropist |prominent philanthropist |noted philanthropist |local philanthropist |major philanthropist |philanthropist and donor |philanthropist and business leader |a philanthropist who funds education |a philanthropist who supports the arts |a philanthropist committed to social change
Themes
charity |society |money |community
Examples
  • The philanthropist donated millions to build a new children’s hospital.
  • As a philanthropist, she focuses on scholarships for students from low-income families.
  • He became known as a philanthropist after funding libraries across the region.
Learner examples
  • A philanthropist gives money to help others.
  • The philanthropist supported a local charity.
Grammar
Dictionary form
philanthropist
IPA
GB/fɪlˈænθɹəpɪst/
US/fɪlˈænθɹəpɪst/
Syllables & stress
phil - an - throp - ist (4 syllables)
Stress on 2nd syllable (an)
Word forms
Noun
  • Base: philanthropist
  • Plural: philanthropists
Word family
Forms
philanthropists noun
Core family
philanthropy noun C1 philanthropic adjective C1
Related words
charity noun A2 charitable adjective B2
Negative and opposite forms
misanthrope noun misanthropic adjective
Advanced or less common
philanthropically adverb C1
Expressions

No expressions linked to this entry yet.

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