What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
insulate
Example
The walls were insulated with foam to keep the house warm in winter. [insulated: verb]
Example
The company insulates its employees from external distractions during work hours. [insulates: present tense]
shield
Example
The knight used his shield to protect himself from the enemy's attack. [shield: noun]
Example
She shielded her children from the harsh reality of their situation. [shielded: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shield is more commonly used than insulate in everyday language. Shield is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while insulate is less common and refers to a specific type of protection.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between insulate and shield?
While insulate is typically associated with a technical or scientific tone, shield is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.