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protest

n. · v.
US //ˈpɹoʊˌtɛst// protest
  1. 1 public demonstration (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    an event where many people gather to show they disagree with something, like a new law or a government decision.

    a public expression of objection, disapproval, or dissent towards an idea or action, typically taking the form of a mass demonstration.

    Example

    Thousands of people joined the protest against the new tax laws in the city centre.

    Example

    The peaceful protest escalated into a broader social movement as citizens from various backgrounds united to demand systemic legislative reform.
  2. 2 formal objection (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Law

    a formal statement or letter that says you do not agree with a decision.

    a formal declaration or written statement expressing dissent or objection to a specific legal, administrative, or official act.

    Example

    The company filed a formal protest after they lost the government contract.

    Example

    The legal team submitted a written protest to the tribunal, arguing that the procedural errors had prejudiced the final verdict.
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  1. 3 to demonstrate against (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to show publicly that you think something is wrong or unfair.

    to express strong objection or disapproval publicly, often through organised group activities.

    Example

    Students gathered outside the university to protest against the increase in tuition fees.

    Example

    Environmental activists continue to protest the construction of the pipeline, citing irreversible damage to the local ecosystem and water supply.
    Pitfall
    They 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'.

  2. 4 to insist or affirm (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    to say something very strongly, especially when other people do not believe you.

    to affirm or declare something solemnly or earnestly, often in response to doubt or accusation.

    Example

    Even after he was caught, he continued to protest his innocence.

    Example

    The defendant continued to protest that he had no prior knowledge of the conspiracy, despite the evidence presented by the prosecution.
Origin

PIE word *tréyes From the Middle English verb protesten, from Old French protester, from Latin prōtestārī, from prō + testor, from testis (“witness”).

Word family
Idioms1 entry

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