protest
- 01 B1 Intermediate
n.an event where many people gather to show they disagree with something, like a new law or a government decision.
n.a public expression of objection, disapproval, or dissent towards an idea or action, typically taking the form of a mass demonstration.
Simple“Thousands of people joined the protest against the new tax laws in the city centre.”
In context“The peaceful protest escalated into a broader social movement as citizens from various backgrounds united to demand systemic legislative reform.”
Synonyms - 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
n.a formal statement or letter that says you do not agree with a decision.
n.a formal declaration or written statement expressing dissent or objection to a specific legal, administrative, or official act.
Simple“The company filed a formal protest after they lost the government contract.”
In context“The legal team submitted a written protest to the tribunal, arguing that the procedural errors had prejudiced the final verdict.”
- 03 B1 Intermediate
v.to show publicly that you think something is wrong or unfair.
v.to express strong objection or disapproval publicly, often through organised group activities.
Simple“Students gathered outside the university to protest against the increase in tuition fees.”
In context“Environmental activists continue to protest the construction of the pipeline, citing irreversible damage to the local ecosystem and water supply.”
PitfallThey protested against of the new rules. They protested against the new rules.The verb 'protest' is followed by 'against' or used transitively; do not add 'of' after 'against'.
Synonyms - 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
v.to say something very strongly, especially when other people do not believe you.
v.to affirm or declare something solemnly or earnestly, often in response to doubt or accusation.
Simple“Even after he was caught, he continued to protest his innocence.”
In context“The defendant continued to protest that he had no prior knowledge of the conspiracy, despite the evidence presented by the prosecution.”
Usage protest against a new
PIE word *tréyes From the Middle English verb protesten, from Old French protester, from Latin prōtestārī, from prō + testor, from testis (“witness”).
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.