A person who publicly supports someone or something, represents their interests, or provides support. Synonyms are supporter or champion.
example
Sie war eine laute Fürsprecherin für mehr Umweltschutz in der Stadt.
She was a vocal advocate for more environmental protection in the city.
Usage tips
Word composition
The word is made up of 'für' (for) and 'Sprecher' (speaker). A 'Fürsprecher' (advocate) is therefore literally someone who speaks 'für' (for) a person or a cause and defends it.
EXAMPLE
Er ist ein bekannter Fürsprecher für die Rechte von Minderheiten.
He is a well-known advocate for the rights of minorities.
Use with 'für'
In this meaning, 'Fürsprecher' (advocate) is almost always used with the preposition 'für' (for) and the accusative to name the cause or person being supported.
EXAMPLE
Die Organisation sucht Fürsprecher für ihr neues Sozialprojekt.
The organization is looking for advocates for its new social project.
Register and style
The word 'Fürsprecher' (advocate) belongs more to formal or elevated language. It is often found in official speeches, newspaper articles, and political discussions.
EXAMPLE
Der Minister trat als Fürsprecher einer strengeren Gesetzgebung auf.
The minister appeared as an advocate of stricter legislation.
Historical context
This meaning is outdated and is no longer used today for practicing lawyers. It appears mainly in historical texts, novels, or films set in the past.
EXAMPLE
Im 18. Jahrhundert war ein Fürsprecher eine wichtige Person bei Gericht.
In the 18th century, an advocate was an important person at court.
Compare with
antonym
Fürsprecher vs Gegner
opponent
'der Gegner' and 'der Fürsprecher' are clear opposites when it comes to opinions or interests. An opponent is against a person, an idea, or a plan and often actively works against it. A 'Fürsprecher' advocates for someone or something and supports that side. In discussions, politics, or decision-making, the difference is important: the opponent is more likely to say no, while the 'Fürsprecher' is more likely to say yes and help.
Fürsprecher
Herr Kaya ist ein wichtiger Fürsprecher des Projekts, weil er die Vorteile gut erklären kann.
Mr. Kaya is an important advocate for the project because he can explain the benefits well.
Gegner
Viele Gegner des neuen Plans kritisieren die hohen Kosten.
Many opponents of the new plan criticize the high costs.