protocol

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'protocol' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a specific set of rules or guidelines for a specific situation. For example: "We must follow all safety protocols when handling hazardous materials."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The first that other judges knew of his plan to contest the appointment of Boddice – who had been nominated two months earlier under a 20-year protocol – was a public statement the next day that it was "a matter for the chief justice under the electoral act".

The Guardian

Between 5% and 9% used the "incredibly ancient" Wired Equivalent Privacy WEPprotocolcol, which was supposed to protect people's data moving around routers, but has known vulnerabilities and should not be used anywhere, Lyne said.

The Guardian - Tech

Rodriguez was also cited for obstructing the investigation and for violating the Basic Agreement which is the master document that lays out protocol between the Players and Major League Baseball.

The Guardian - Sport

According to EU protocol, the proposal from the investigating team will now go to a college of EU commissioners for a final decision next month.

The Guardian

In a break with protocol, the invitation for Netanyahu to speak was orchestrated by Republican congressional leaders without input from the White House or State Department, angering senior administration officials who believe it was politically motivated.

The Guardian

It's enough to make you think that Dionte Green's case might follow the same path: young black man murdered without the protocol to investigate the terrible, complicated bias potentially behind the whole familiar crime, nothing changes, another black man dies tomorrow.

The Guardian - Opinion

The experimental protocol was overseen by Professor Gary Green of the York Neuroimaging Centre at York University, who rejects the suggestion that he or his team were manipulated by the BBC.

The Guardian - Opinion

The court said it was a violation of article 3 of protocol 1 to the European convention on human rights, which relates to the right to free elections.

The Guardian

The latest judgment said: "The court concluded that there had been a violation of article 3 of protocol No 1 because the case was identical to other prisoner voting cases in which a breach of the right to vote had been found and the relevant legislation had not yet been amended".

The Guardian

Australia may be able to increase its industrial emissions by 26% by 2020 and still easily meet its Kyoto protocol targets, new analysis released at the Lima climate talks suggests.

The Guardian

The law, approved unanimously by parliament on Monday, is based on a United Nations protocol against the smuggling of migrants and allows judges and police to take action.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Always cite the specific "protocol" being followed when conducting research or experiments to maintain transparency and credibility.

Common error

Avoid using "protocol" when you actually mean "strategy". A "protocol" is a set of rules, whereas a "strategy" is a plan to achieve a goal.

Linguistic Context

The noun "protocol" primarily functions as a descriptor for established guidelines or procedures, providing a structured approach to various activities. Examples from Ludwig show it used across different domains, underscoring its role in specifying formal conduct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

33%

Formal & Business

32%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "protocol" is a widely used noun that refers to a set of established rules or procedures, essential for ensuring consistent and correct actions across various contexts. As indicated by Ludwig AI, the term is grammatically correct and applicable in different scenarios. Its prevalence in news, science, and formal business underscores its importance in defining standardized processes. To avoid confusion, remember that a "protocol" is not a "strategy" but a set of guidelines. This comprehensive analysis, along with practical tips and examples, offers a clear understanding of how to use "protocol" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

procedure

Refers to a set of actions conducted in a certain order or manner; focuses on the method.

established procedure

Highlights that the procedure is already in use and known to the involved entities.

accepted practice

Focuses on the conventional or customary way of doing things, highlighting acceptance.

standard procedure

Implies a uniform and regular method; stresses standardization.

code of conduct

Highlights the ethical guidelines or rules governing behavior.

set of rules

Emphasizes the regulatory aspect of a protocol.

official guidelines

Stresses the formal and authorized nature of the protocol.

formal convention

Highlights the traditional or customary aspect of the protocol.

diplomatic practice

Relates specifically to international relations and etiquette.

security measures

Concentrates on steps taken to protect against threats or risks.

FAQs

How can I use "protocol" in a sentence?

You can use "protocol" to refer to a set of rules or procedures, as in "The doctor followed the standard "safety protocol"". It can also refer to diplomatic or social conventions, such as "There was a breach of "diplomatic protocol" during the meeting".

What's the difference between "protocol" and "procedure"?

"Protocol" often implies a more formal or standardized set of rules, especially in technical or diplomatic contexts. "Procedure" is a more general term for a sequence of actions. While sometimes interchangeable, using "protocol" suggests a higher level of regulation or established "accepted practice".

What are some synonyms for "protocol"?

Synonyms for "protocol" include "procedure", "convention", "code of conduct", and "set of rules". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What does "following protocol" mean?

"Following protocol" means adhering to the established rules and guidelines for a particular situation. This ensures consistency, safety, and proper conduct, whether in a medical setting, diplomatic event, or technical operation. It is in line with the "accepted practice".