spokesperson
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /spˈəʊkspəsən/
US
- /ˈspoʊkspərsən/
Description
- Official voice
- Public representative
- Person chosen to speak
Imagine a busy company launching a new product. They do not just hope people understand it. They need someone to explain it clearly. That is where a spokesperson comes in. A spokesperson is the person chosen to speak for an organization, group, or person. You can think of them as the official voice, sharing messages and answering questions.
A politician might have a press secretary act as their spokesperson, answering questions from journalists. A company facing a crisis will often appoint a spokesperson to speak to the public. Sometimes, a famous person is hired to be a spokesperson for a product or cause. The key idea is that this person is not speaking only for themselves; they are sharing the views and information of someone else.
A spokesperson is an individual authorized to represent and speak for a group, organization, company, or even a person. They act as a primary point of contact with the public, media, and other stakeholders, delivering key messages and managing communication. The role goes beyond simply talking—it requires careful consideration of how information is presented and ensuring consistency with the represented entity's goals and values.
The context in which you'd use "spokesperson" varies widely. In politics, a spokesperson might brief reporters on policy changes or respond to criticism. In business, they could announce earnings reports, explain product recalls, or speak for a company during a crisis. Sometimes companies also use well-known public figures as spokespersons in ads, interviews, or social media campaigns.
The term implies a level of authority and trust. When you hear someone identified as "a spokesperson for [organization]," you understand they're delivering an official statement, not just personal opinions. It's important to note the distinction between a spokesperson and a public relations professional; while both deal with communication, a PR pro manages overall strategy, whereas a spokesperson is the face and voice of that strategy in specific situations.
So, whether it's navigating a political debate, launching a new product, or responding to a crisis, a spokesperson serves as the crucial link between an organization and its audience—ensuring clear, consistent, and trustworthy communication.
Examples
- 1
Police statement
A police spokesperson said the road would stay closed overnight.
- 2
Charity role
She now works as a spokesperson for an environmental charity.
- 3
Company response
After the story appeared online, the company sent a spokesperson to talk to reporters.
- 4
Celebrity rumor
The actor did not comment directly, but a spokesperson denied the rumor.
- 5
Union talks
Union spokespersons called the offer disappointing but said talks would continue.
Forms and spellings
2 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- spokespersonnoun
Forms
- spokespersonspluralnoun