protocol

word

/ˈpɹoʊtəˌkɑɫ/
PRO-tuh-kawl
/pɹˈəʊtəkˌɒl/
PROH-tuh-kol

Definition

A protocol is an official set of rules, steps, or standards for how to do something or how people, systems, or organizations should behave. It is used in areas like technology, science, medicine, and formal events.

Usage & Nuances

Common in formal and technical contexts. Very frequent collocations include 'safety protocol', 'security protocol', 'medical protocol', and 'follow protocol'. In tech, it often means a system of communication rules; in social or diplomatic contexts, it refers to formal procedure or etiquette.

Example Sentences

The nurse explained the new protocol to the patients.

basic

We must follow the safety protocol in the lab.

basic

This app uses a secure protocol to send data.

basic

I know it feels slow, but we're just following protocol.

natural

Apparently, even the CEO had to go through the same protocol as everyone else.

natural

If it's a diplomatic dinner, there's a whole protocol for where people sit.

natural