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Protocols: meaning, definitions and examples

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protocols

 

[ˈprəʊtəkɒl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

computer networking

A set of rules governing the exchange or transmission of data between devices.

Synonyms

guidelines, rules, standards.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
protocols

Commonly used in formal or technical environments, especially in scientific research, medical procedures, and information technology to describe a set of formal steps and procedures to be followed.

  • The laboratory follows strict protocols for handling hazardous materials
  • Network protocols are essential for the proper functioning of internet services
rules

Used for clearly defined and often enforced standards of behavior, typically in games, organizations, or institutions. Breaking them usually has specific consequences.

  • Students must follow the school's rules or face detention
  • The game has simple rules that everyone must respect
guidelines

Typically used to describe advice or recommendations that are less formal than rules and do not have to be strictly followed, often seen in healthcare, education, and workplace procedures.

  • The health department has issued new dietary guidelines
  • Teachers need to follow school guidelines when planning their lessons
standards

Used to describe established norms or criteria in various fields such as industry, education, and professional practices to ensure quality and consistency.

  • The company maintains high standards of customer service
  • International standards for environmental protection are crucial

Examples of usage

  • The TCP/IP protocol is widely used in computer networking.
  • The HTTP protocol is used for transmitting web pages.
Context #2 | Noun

medical

A detailed plan of a scientific or medical experiment, treatment, or procedure.

Synonyms

method, plan, procedure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
protocols

Use this term when referring to official procedures or rules that must be followed in certain formal or professional situations.

  • The research team had to adhere to strict ethical protocols before starting their experiment
  • Hospital protocols require all visitors to wear masks
procedure

Use this word to describe a specific series of actions conducted in a certain order or manner, often officially recorded and standard.

  • The safety procedure must be followed during all emergency situations
  • They are updating the procedure for booking travel arrangements
plan

This word should be chosen when talking about a detailed proposal for doing or achieving something in the future. It's about organizing steps that need to be taken.

  • They developed a plan to improve the company's performance
  • My plan for the weekend includes going hiking and reading a book
method

This is best used when describing a specific way or technique of doing something, especially when it's part of a larger process.

  • The scientist used a new method to analyze the data
  • Her study method involves reviewing notes every evening

Examples of usage

  • The study followed strict protocols to ensure accurate results.
  • The doctor followed the protocol for administering the vaccine.
Context #3 | Noun

diplomacy

The formal procedure and etiquette used in official diplomatic relations.

Synonyms

ceremony, etiquette, formality.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
protocols

Used in official or formal settings, particularly related to procedures and traditions in organizations, governments, or military environments.

  • Diplomats must follow strict protocols during international negotiations
  • The company's safety protocols must be adhered to at all times
etiquette

Relates to the customary code of polite behavior in society or among members of a particular profession or group.

  • Good table etiquette is important when dining with guests
  • There is a certain etiquette you should follow when emailing your boss
formality

Refers to behavior that is prescribed according to rules or conventions, often in a way that is perceived as overly strict or rigid.

  • He addressed the board with proper formality
  • The meeting was just a formality to finalize the agreement
ceremony

Typically refers to a formal event or process that marks an important occasion, such as weddings, graduations, and official functions.

  • The graduation ceremony will be held in the auditorium
  • The wedding ceremony was beautifully organized

Examples of usage

  • The ambassador followed the protocol when meeting with foreign dignitaries.
  • The protocol for addressing royalty is well-defined.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term originated from the Greek word 'protokollon,' meaning the first sheet of a roll of papyrus.
  • In medieval times, 'protocols' referred to documents that outlined diplomatic agreements or treaties.
  • The modern usage of the word began in the late 19th century as international relations and technology advanced.

Technology

  • In computer networks, protocols govern how data is sent and received, ensuring communication is efficient and secure.
  • The Internet Protocol Suite, also known as TCP/IP, is fundamental for the functioning of the internet and comprises rules for data transmission.
  • Protocols like HTTP and FTP determine how web browsers communicate with servers to retrieve and send data.

Social Sciences

  • In psychology, there are protocols for conducting experiments to ensure results are valid and replicable.
  • Medical protocols provide healthcare professionals with standardized procedures for diagnosis and treatment, enhancing patient safety.
  • Establishing communication protocols in organizations can significantly improve teamwork and project outcomes.

Pop Culture

  • In movies and TV shows, 'protocols' often depict secretive rules that characters must follow during espionage or crime-solving.
  • The phrase 'Code of Conduct' is sometimes used interchangeably with 'protocols', appearing in popular media to emphasize ethical behavior.
  • Science fiction often explores 'protocols' in the context of artificial intelligence, where robots follow strict guidelines to interact with humans.

Education

  • Educational protocols refer to established methods for teaching and assessment, enhancing learning outcomes.
  • In classrooms, teachers often follow protocols for group activities to ensure all students participate and engage.
  • Educational institutions may have protocols for handling emergencies, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.

Translations

Translations of the word "protocols" in other languages:

🇵🇹 protocolos

🇮🇳 प्रोटोकॉल

🇩🇪 Protokolle

🇮🇩 protokol

🇺🇦 протоколи

🇵🇱 protokoły

🇯🇵 プロトコル

🇫🇷 protocoles

🇪🇸 protocolos

🇹🇷 protokoller

🇰🇷 프로토콜

🇸🇦 بروتوكولات

🇨🇿 protokoly

🇸🇰 protokoly

🇨🇳 协议

🇸🇮 protokoli

🇮🇸 samskiptareglur

🇰🇿 хаттамалар

🇬🇪 პროტოკოლები

🇦🇿 protokollar

🇲🇽 protocolos

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,413 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.