What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
refuge
Example
The refugees sought refuge in the neighboring country. [refuge: noun]
Example
She found refuge in her friend's house after the storm destroyed her home. [refuge: noun]
shelter
Example
The homeless people sought shelter in the abandoned building. [shelter: noun]
Example
We sheltered under a tree during the rainstorm. [shelter: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shelter is more commonly used than refuge in everyday language. Shelter is a versatile word that covers a wide range of contexts, while refuge is less common and often used in specific situations.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between refuge and shelter?
Both refuge and shelter can be used in formal and informal contexts, but refuge may be associated with more serious and urgent situations, while shelter can have a more neutral or positive connotation.
