ward off enemies

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ward off enemies" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where one is discussing protection or defense against adversaries or threats. Example: "The ancient warriors used various charms and rituals to ward off enemies during battle."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

The purpose of the thread, which often contains poison, is to ward off enemies or to capture prey.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Above the capital, Tbilisi, a giant statue of Mother Georgia holds a sword to ward off enemies and a bowl of wine to welcome friends.

BBC

As a result, the Church needs a guardian to ward off enemies while caring for its own weel-being and administering alms to the poor.

SEP

The researchers, who published their work online this week in the Journal of the Royal Society Interface, suggest the bright glows help ward off enemies.

Science Magazine

Should they be attacked, rays have one weapon in their arsenal - a serrated, venomous-sheathed barb, four to eight inches long, that can be used to ward off enemies or someone settling on top of them.

BBC

The garlic and pumpkin are to ward off enemies, the spinach a symbol of renewal.

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

Shamans were believed to possess special powers to treat illness and to ward off enemy raids and food shortages.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Special rituals were being performed in their camp to strengthen the team, and magical waters were being sprinkled around their goal line to ward off enemy shots as garlic garlands might once have been used to ward off evil spirits.

The New York Times - Sports

Bit by bit he learned the truth: Jeff, then 19, had been in a group of soldiers sent out to the perimeter of their base camp to fit a 40lb shaped charge, an explosive intended to ward off enemy Vietnamese soldiers.

The Guardian

In 1898, during the Spanish-American War the lighthouse was equipped with 10-inch guns to ward off enemy attacks, making it one of the few armed American lighthouses in history.

Wikipedia

Giving warning, spotting water in the distance, reading weather, warding off enemies and hyenas.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "ward off enemies" when you want to emphasize active defense or deterrence against potential threats, both literal and figurative. It's a strong, evocative phrase that implies a proactive approach to security.

Common error

Be mindful that "enemies" can be both literal (e.g., opposing armies) and figurative (e.g., diseases, negative influences). Using the phrase in an overly casual context can diminish its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ward off enemies" functions as a verb phrase, primarily used to describe actions taken to defend against or repel potential threats or adversaries. As Ludwig AI states, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. The phrase implies an active measure of defense.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

30%

Wiki

30%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "ward off enemies" is a grammatically correct and usable verb phrase that describes the act of defending against or repelling threats. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It is most frequently found in news and media, encyclopedias, and wiki sources. While its usage is not extremely common, it is a powerful and evocative way to express proactive defense. Related phrases include "repel adversaries" and "defend against foes". When using this phrase, consider the context and ensure that the scope of "enemies" aligns with the intended meaning, avoiding overly casual or diluted applications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

repel adversaries

Focuses on actively pushing back against opponents.

defend against foes

Highlights the act of protecting oneself or others from attacks.

fend off antagonists

Implies skillfully resisting or avoiding the impact of opponents.

deter aggressors

Emphasizes discouraging potential attackers through preemptive measures.

hold off invaders

Suggests preventing entry or encroachment by hostile forces.

thwart attackers

Focuses on preventing attackers from succeeding in their aims.

protect from threats

General phrase indicating safeguarding against potential dangers.

shield from harm

Implies creating a barrier to prevent damage or injury.

safeguard against assaults

Highlights the act of keeping safe from sudden and violent attacks.

secure from aggression

Focuses on creating a state of safety and invulnerability against hostile actions.

FAQs

What does "ward off enemies" mean?

The phrase "ward off enemies" means to defend against, protect from, or repel adversaries or threats. It implies taking action to prevent harm or attack from those who are hostile.

How can I use "ward off enemies" in a sentence?

You can use "ward off enemies" in sentences like: "The castle walls were built to ward off enemies." or "She used her sharp wit to ward off enemies in the workplace."

What can I say instead of "ward off enemies"?

Alternatives to "ward off enemies" include "repel adversaries", "defend against foes", or "fend off antagonists", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "ward off enemies" and "protect from enemies"?

"Ward off enemies" often implies a proactive effort to keep enemies at bay, while "protect from enemies" can suggest a more passive safeguarding. The phrase "ward off enemies" suggests active resistance.