C1noun3K

Refuge

UK /["/ˈrefjuːdʒ/"]/US /["/ˈrefjuːdʒ/"]/

Definition

shelter or protection from danger, trouble, etc.

In simple words: A safe place where someone can go for help or protection.

Examples

  • During the storm, many people sought refuge in the community shelter.
  • The refugees found refuge in a neighboring country after fleeing conflict.
  • The forest served as a natural refuge for wildlife escaping predators.
  • She found refuge in her art whenever life became overwhelming.
  • The castle offered refuge to villagers during times of war.

Usage notes

Often used in contexts of safety during conflict or disaster. It may be seen as more formal when referring to political asylum, while it's more neutral in a general context.

Grammar pattern

offer + refuge (to someone)

Memory hint

Think of 'refuge' like a 'refugee' finding shelter from a storm.

Collocations

  • safe
  • temporary
  • wildlife
  • take
  • look for
  • seek
  • refuge against
  • refuge from
  • a place of refuge
  • safe
  • temporary
  • wildlife
  • take
  • look for
  • seek
  • refuge against
  • refuge from
  • a place of refuge

Synonyms

  • sanctuary
  • shelter
  • haven
  • asylum
  • retreat

Antonyms

  • danger
  • risk

Common mistakes

  • 'Refuge' is often confused with 'refugee', which refers to a person seeking refuge.
  • 'Refuge' should not be used as a verb; it's a noun.