Protection: meaning, definitions and examples

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protection

 

[prəˈtɛkʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

safety

The action of protecting someone or something, or the state of being protected; preservation from injury, harm, or destruction.

Synonyms

defense, safeguarding, security.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
protection

Used when emphasizing the act of keeping someone or something safe from harm, damage, or loss.

  • Wearing a helmet for protection during a bike ride
  • The company offers identity theft protection services
safeguarding

Often used in contexts involving the assurance of safety and well-being, especially in legal, educational, and social services settings.

  • The organization is committed to safeguarding the rights of children
  • Ensuring data privacy involves safeguarding personal information
defense

Commonly used in contexts where there is a need to protect against an attack or criticism, often related to physical or strategic resistance.

  • The army is responsible for the country's defense
  • She gave a strong defense of her thesis during the review
security

Refers to measures taken to achieve safety, particularly focusing on preventing crime, espionage, or danger in a broader, more general sense.

  • The airport has tight security measures
  • Financial security is important for long-term stability

Examples of usage

  • His job is to ensure the protection of the endangered species in the rainforest.
  • The protection of personal data is a top priority for many organizations.
Context #2 | Noun

legal

A legal or formal measure intended to preserve civil liberties or rights.

Synonyms

guarantee, provision, safeguard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
protection

Used when speaking about keeping someone or something safe from harm or damage.

  • Wearing a helmet provides protection while riding a bike.
  • The new law offers protection to endangered species.
safeguard

Utilized when discussing measures taken to protect someone or something, often in a more formal or legal context.

  • Strict regulations act as a safeguard against financial fraud.
  • Parents should safeguard their children from online dangers.
provision

Typically used when talking about supplying or making something available.

  • The contract includes a provision for annual leave.
  • The government made provisions for the homeless during the cold weather.
guarantee

Best used when ensuring something will happen or be of a certain quality.

  • This product comes with a two-year guarantee.
  • The company guarantees fast delivery.

Examples of usage

  • The constitution provides protection against unreasonable search and seizure.
  • The union negotiated for better protections for workers' rights.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word 'protection' comes from the Latin word 'protectio,' which means 'a covering'.
  • It entered the English language in the late 14th century, initially referring to the act of guarding.
  • Similar words in other languages, such as 'protection' in French and 'protección' in Spanish, also derive from Latin.

Legal Aspects

  • Legally, protection can refer to laws that safeguard individual rights, such as those granting protection from discrimination.
  • There’s a concept known as 'protective orders' that courts can issue to keep individuals safe from harassment or harm.
  • Intellectual property protection is crucial for inventors and artists to safeguard their creative works.

Psychology

  • In psychology, protection can refer to defense mechanisms that help people cope with stress or anxiety.
  • Attachment theory suggests that emotional protection comes from strong bonds with caregivers, fostering feelings of security.
  • Overprotectiveness can sometimes hinder personal growth, as it prevents individuals from facing challenges.

Cultural Practices

  • Many cultures have rituals or practices aimed at providing spiritual protection, like blessings or talismans.
  • The idea of protecting one's family or community is a recurring theme in folklore, often seen in stories of heroes.
  • Traditional clothing or markings may serve as protective symbols in various cultures, believed to ward off evil spirits.

Environmental Protection

  • Environmental protection refers to practices aimed at conserving natural resources and safeguarding ecosystems from harm.
  • Many countries have established national parks and reserves as a means of protecting wildlife and habitats.
  • Awareness of climate change has led to a global movement advocating for the protection of the Earth's atmosphere and biodiversity.

Translations

Translations of the word "protection" in other languages:

🇵🇹 proteção

🇮🇳 सुरक्षा

🇩🇪 Schutz

🇮🇩 perlindungan

🇺🇦 захист

🇵🇱 ochrona

🇯🇵 保護 (ほご)

🇫🇷 protection

🇪🇸 protección

🇹🇷 koruma

🇰🇷 보호 (보호)

🇸🇦 حماية

🇨🇿 ochrana

🇸🇰 ochrana

🇨🇳 保护 (bǎohù)

🇸🇮 zaščita

🇮🇸 vernd

🇰🇿 қорғау

🇬🇪 დაცვა

🇦🇿 mühafizə

🇲🇽 protección

Word Frequency Rank

At #837 in the frequency ranking, this word is highly important for effective communication. It's commonly used in daily situations and should be prioritized in your vocabulary building.