What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
defender
Example
The defender made a crucial save to prevent the opposing team from scoring. [defender: noun]
Example
She is a defender of animal rights and works tirelessly to promote their welfare. [defender: noun]
Example
He bravely defended his friend against the bully's insults. [defended: verb]
guard
Example
The security guard checked my ID before allowing me into the building. [guard: noun]
Example
She put a guard on the sharp edges of the table to prevent accidents. [guard: noun]
Example
He was hired to guard the museum's valuable artifacts from theft. [guarded: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Guard is more commonly used than defender in everyday language. Guard is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while defender is less common and refers to specific protective roles in sports or personal defense.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between defender and guard?
Both defender and guard can be used in formal and informal contexts, but guard may be more commonly used in formal contexts due to its association with security and protection.