B2nounformalpoliticshistory
US/ˈsteɪts.mən/
UK/ˈsteɪts.mən/
an experienced and respected political leader, especially one who is wise and fair
In context
Many people remember Nelson Mandela as a great statesman.
The old statesman gave advice to young leaders at the conference.
A true statesman puts the country before his own party.
Words that go with statesman
adjective + noun
- elder statesmanThe elder statesman helped end the dispute.
- great statesmanHe was a great statesman and a gentle man.
- respected statesmanA respected statesman opened the summit.
- senior statesmanThe senior statesman advised the new president in private.
- wise statesmanA wise statesman avoids unnecessary wars.
verb + preposition
- act like a statesmanTry to act like a statesman in this crisis.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
a woman statesmanCorrect: a stateswoman