speak up for

VERB

defend

Synonyms

STRONGEST

advocate argue assert back champion endorse explain guarantee justify maintain stand by support uphold

STRONG

aid befriend espouse exculpate exonerate plead rationalize recommend second stonewall sustain vindicate warrant

WEAK

apologize for back up bear one out come to defense of cover for go to bat for prove a case put in a good word ride shotgun for say in defense stand up for stick up for thump for

Antonyms

STRONGEST

oppose protest reject

STRONG

accuse blame condemn

WEAK

abandon attack deny forsake relinquish renounce

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

She has traveled to Washington, D.C., with the group to speak up for older borrowers.

From Salon • Mar. 17, 2026

Team USA athlete Rich Ruohonen didn’t shrink from his Olympic moment—nor from his chance to speak up for Minnesota.

From Slate • Feb. 27, 2026

"It has been incredibly reassuring to see so many people in Chile and around the world care deeply about, and actively speak up for, the protection of dark and quiet skies," Barcons said.

From Barron's • Feb. 2, 2026

At the time, she had no idea how to speak up for herself.

From BBC • Nov. 7, 2025

Come what may, I had to speak up for my sisters.

From "P.S. Be Eleven" by Rita Williams-Garcia

speak up for

Example Sentences

Related Words