refuge for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "refuge for" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a place or situation that provides safety, shelter, or protection for someone or something. Example: "The old church served as a refuge for those seeking shelter from the storm."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

David Zabriskie "Cycling was a refuge for me.

The New York Times - Sports

Termitaria acted as refuge for tree vegetation.

Forest Ecology and Management

History offers no refuge for Republicans here.

The Washington Post

Maintaining a refuge for beautiful birds?

The New Yorker

And it was a refuge for learning.

The Guardian

He started a refuge for gopher tortoises.

The New Yorker

Nashawena is a refuge for Kyra.

The New York Times - Books

"This space is not just a refuge for the dogs, it's a refuge for me too.

The New York Times

Such measures may provide refuge for forest species after clearfell.

Forest Ecology and Management

For decades, Cuba has served as a refuge for fugitives.

The New York Times

BRIGHTON has long been a refuge for the unconventional.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "refuge for", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being protected and from what threat. This provides clarity and strengthens the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "refuge for" in contexts where simple assistance or help is provided. The phrase implies a significant threat or vulnerability that necessitates a safe haven, not just general support.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "refuge for" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun to describe where someone or something can find safety or protection. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely used and grammatically correct.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

28%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "refuge for" is a versatile and widely used phrase that accurately describes a place or means of safety and protection. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage across diverse fields like news, science, and business. When using the phrase, clarity in specifying the nature of the threat and the protection offered enhances its impact. Remember to differentiate it from simple assistance, reserving it for situations where genuine sanctuary is needed. Consider alternatives like "sanctuary for" or "haven for" to achieve slightly different nuances. "Refuge for" remains a strong and reliable choice for conveying the provision of safety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

sanctuary for

Emphasizes the sacred or inviolable nature of the protection.

haven for

Suggests a place of peace and safety, often from storms or other dangers.

shelter for

Focuses on protection from the elements or immediate threats.

safe haven for

Highlights the aspect of safety and security.

asylum for

Implies protection for those fleeing persecution or seeking political protection.

retreat for

Suggests a place for quiet and seclusion, often for rejuvenation.

harbor for

Evokes a sense of safe arrival and protection, especially for ships or people.

protection for

Highlights the act of defending or guarding someone or something.

safe space for

Indicates a place where individuals feel comfortable and free from judgment or harm.

recourse for

Offers a source of help or a solution to a problem.

FAQs

How can I use "refuge for" in a sentence?

Use "refuge for" to describe a place or situation that provides safety or protection. For example, "The library became a "refuge for" students during the storm".

What's a good alternative to "refuge for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "sanctuary for", "haven for", or "shelter for".

Is it appropriate to use "refuge for" in formal writing?

Yes, "refuge for" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when discussing situations involving significant threat or vulnerability. It maintains a professional and clear tone.

What kind of things can be described as a "refuge for" something?

A wide variety of things can serve as a "refuge for", including physical locations (like buildings or natural habitats), abstract concepts (like art or writing), or even emotional states (like hope). The key is that it provides safety or protection from something else.