seek refuge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "seek refuge" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a person looking for safety or shelter from danger or harm. For example, "After the storm, many people sought refuge in nearby buildings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Mary had to seek refuge.

Independent

I seek refuge in God.

Columbia University

They seek refuge, and redemption, in religion.

The New York Times

Sweden and Finland may yet seek refuge in NATO.

The Economist

It was time to seek refuge.

The New York Times - Travel

Homeless families could also seek refuge.

The New York Times

Saturday nights on the late side, teenagers seek refuge there.

The Washington Post

Most seek refuge in Mexico and the US.

The Guardian

Terrified, he crawled inside his father's shirt to seek refuge.

The New York Times

We seek refuge and plead for our safety.

The Guardian

They seek refuge in their intellects and emotions.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about individuals or groups displaced by conflict or disaster, use the phrase "seek refuge" to accurately and sensitively describe their search for safety and stability.

Common error

Avoid using "seek refuge" in situations where the sought safety is trivial or humorous. The phrase carries a connotation of serious threat or danger and should be reserved for appropriate contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "seek refuge" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of finding a safe place, often due to danger or persecution. Ludwig's examples show it is used in both literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Wiki

15%

Academia

7%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "seek refuge" is a versatile verb phrase that describes the act of finding a safe place or shelter, typically due to danger or persecution. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts, primarily in News & Media, Wiki and Academia. While its usage is broad, it is essential to reserve it for situations where the need for safety is genuine and significant. Remember to consider alternatives such as "find sanctuary" or "take shelter" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Given its frequency and clear meaning, "seek refuge" remains a valuable tool for expressing the critical need for safety in both literal and figurative senses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

find safety

Highlights the outcome of the search, emphasizing the state of being protected rather than the act of seeking. Broader in scope.

seek a safe haven

This alternative is a variation that places additional emphasis on the idea of haven, typically implies that the location is safe and secure.

look for protection

A general term indicating a search for any form of safeguard, whether physical, legal, or emotional. More versatile in application.

take shelter

Focuses on the immediate action of finding protection from the elements or immediate danger, emphasizing the physical act of seeking cover.

find sanctuary

Implies a sacred or protected place, often associated with religious or historical contexts. Adds a layer of inviolability to the concept of refuge.

seek asylum

Specifically refers to seeking protection in another country due to political persecution or other serious threats in one's home country. More formal and legalistic.

request haven

Emphasizes the act of formally asking for a place of safety and security, suggesting a structured process or established refuge.

escape to safety

Emphasizes the act of fleeing from a dangerous situation to a secure location, highlighting the element of urgency and danger.

withdraw to a safe place

Implies a retreat from conflict or danger to a secure location, often suggesting a strategic or planned withdrawal.

go into hiding

Suggests an attempt to avoid detection, usually from authorities or pursuers. Implies a deliberate effort to remain unseen.

FAQs

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

You can use "seek refuge" to describe the act of finding a safe place during danger. For example: "After the earthquake, many residents had to "seek refuge" in shelters."

What are some alternatives to "seek refuge"?

Alternatives to "seek refuge" include "find sanctuary", "take shelter", or "seek asylum", each carrying slightly different connotations.

Is it correct to say "sought refuge"?

Yes, "sought refuge" is the past tense of "seek refuge" and is grammatically correct. For example: "The refugees "sought refuge" in neighboring countries."

What is the difference between "seek refuge" and "seek shelter"?

"Seek refuge" often implies a more dire or dangerous situation, whereas "seek shelter" can refer to protection from the elements or less severe threats. Though very similar, "seek refuge" also has a sense of urgency.