What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
protectorate
Example
The United States established a protectorate over Cuba after the Spanish-American War. [protectorate: noun]
Example
The small island nation became a protectorate of the larger neighboring country. [protectorate: adjective]
colony
Example
The British established colonies in North America during the 17th and 18th centuries. [colony: noun]
Example
The country was once a colony of a European power before gaining independence. [colony: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Colony is more commonly used than protectorate in everyday language. Colony has been used throughout history to describe the establishment of new territories by powerful states, while protectorate is a more specific term used to describe a relationship where a weaker state is protected by a more powerful one.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between protectorate and colony?
Both protectorate and colony are formal terms used in political and historical contexts. However, colony is more versatile and can be employed in various formality levels, allowing it to be used in both formal and informal contexts.
