protect

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "protect" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to safeguarding someone or something from harm or danger. Example: "We must protect our environment to ensure a sustainable future for generations to come."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Although the investigation is in its early stages, we will take action to protect the public if we uncover evidence that could affect the safety of other rides at the park or elsewhere".

The Guardian

How can I protect myself?

The Guardian - Tech

He added: "I was of the view he was trying to protect me".

The Guardian

"This is a circumscribed narrow system, directed at us being able to protect our people and all of it is done with the oversight of the courts".

The Guardian

That is the only way to protect British jobs.

The Guardian

"We will unambiguously protect our territory".

The Economist

Making helmets compulsory eliminated the dilemma: the players could protect their heads without suffering a competitive disadvantage.

The Economist

And while the Yale economist Robert Shiller has long advocated using markets to help individuals protect themselves against things like declining house prices or future unemployment, the chances of that happening now seem smaller than ever.

The Economist

"I had wanted to protect Mora from conceding more goals but then I realised that I risked ruining two goalkeepers' confidence on the same day so I left Mora in".

The Guardian - Sport

I am highly sceptical about this: Nicky Morgan as education secretary, in my view, has shown no commitment to protect education spending, or allow for inflation or increased pupil numbers.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"At this late date, prompt passage of the USA Freedom Act by the Senate is the best way to minimize any possible disruption of our ability to protect the American people," Clapper said on Friday.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "protect", clearly specify what or whom you are protecting and from what threat or danger. This adds clarity and strengthens the impact of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "protect" without specifying the object and the threat. Instead of saying "We need to protect", specify "We need to protect endangered species from habitat loss" for a more precise and impactful message.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "protect" is as a transitive verb, requiring a direct object. As Ludwig AI states, it denotes the act of keeping someone or something safe from harm or danger, as shown in examples like "protect the public" and "protect British jobs".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Formal & Business

7%

Science

7%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "protect" is a versatile transitive verb widely employed to express the action of safeguarding someone or something from potential harm or danger. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability across varied contexts. As evidenced by the numerous examples, "protect" is particularly prevalent in news and media, but also appears in business and scientific writing. When using "protect", ensure clarity by specifying the object and the threat. Consider alternatives like "safeguard", "defend", or "shield" to add nuance to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Safeguard

Focuses on preserving something valuable or important from harm or undesirable changes.

Defend

Emphasizes active resistance against attack or threat.

Shield

Implies creating a barrier against potential harm or impact.

Guard

Highlights vigilance and readiness to prevent harm or unauthorized access.

Preserve

Emphasizes maintaining something in its original state or condition.

Secure

Focuses on ensuring something is safe, stable, and not at risk.

Conserve

Highlights the careful use and management of resources to avoid depletion or damage.

Look after

Informal way of saying care for someone, can refer to protecting

Take care of

Similar to "look after", a more casual phrase.

Uphold

Emphasizes supporting and maintaining principles or laws.

FAQs

How can I use "protect" in a sentence?

You can use "protect" to indicate safeguarding something from harm, for example, "We must "protect the environment"" or "The helmet will "protect your head"".

What are some alternatives to the word "protect"?

Alternatives include "safeguard", "defend", "shield", and "guard", each carrying a slightly different nuance.

Which is correct: "protect from" or "protect against"?

Both "protect from" and "protect against" are correct and can be used interchangeably, although "protect from" is more commonly used. For example, "protect from the sun" or "protect against viruses".

What's the difference between "protect" and "defend"?

"Protect" generally means to keep safe from harm or injury, while "defend" implies active resistance against an attack. You "protect your belongings" with insurance and "defend your country" from enemies.