What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
protection
Example
Wearing a helmet provides protection for your head while riding a bike. [protection: noun]
Example
The company implemented new security protocols to provide better protection against cyber attacks. [protection: noun]
shield
Example
The knight raised his shield to block the enemy's sword. [shield: noun]
Example
The new armor was designed to shield the wearer from bullets and shrapnel. [shield: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Protection is more commonly used in everyday language, while shield is often associated with more specific contexts such as warfare or science fiction.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between protection and shield?
Both protection and shield can be used in formal and informal contexts, but protection is generally considered more neutral and versatile in terms of formality.