white knight

Friendly

Word: White Knight

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A "white knight" is a term used to describe a person or a company that comes to help another person or company that is in trouble, especially in a business situation. In the context of business, a white knight often buys a company that is facing a hostile takeover (when another company tries to buy it against its will) in order to save it.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "white knight" when talking about business, finance, or situations where someone steps in to help.
• It usually has a positive connotation, meaning that the action is seen as helpful or protective.

Examples:

1. "When Company A was facing a hostile takeover, Company B acted as a white knight and purchased it, ensuring its survival."
2. "The CEO hoped that a white knight would emerge to rescue the company from its financial difficulties."

Advanced Usage:

• In a broader context, "white knight" can refer to someone who comes to the rescue in any difficult situation, not just in business. For example, in a social situation, a friend who defends you from bullies might be called a white knight.

Word Variants:

• There are not many direct variants of "white knight," but you may encounter similar terms in different contexts, such as "white knight syndrome," which describes someone who feels the need to rescue others.

Different Meanings:

• Outside of business, "white knight" can also refer to a person who has a savior complex, meaning they feel compelled to help others, sometimes to their own detriment.

Synonyms:

• Rescuer
• Savior
• Benefactor

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "white knight," but you might use related phrases like "come to the rescue" or "step in to help."

Summary:

A "white knight" is someone or something that comes to the aid of another in distress, especially in business situations.

Academic

Noun

1. a company that is a friendly acquirer in a takeover