Shelter vs. refuge: what’s the difference?
The short answer
Shelter often emphasizes a physical structure or temporary place of protection, while refuge focuses more on the condition of safety and can be used metaphorically.
What they have in common
Both shelter and refuge refer to a place or condition of protection, safety, or escape from danger or hardship.
Examples
shelter
- We found shelter from the storm under a bridge.
- The animal shelter takes in stray dogs and cats.
- During the hike, we took shelter in a cave.
refuge
- The exiled prince found refuge in a neighboring country.
- Music was her refuge from the chaos of everyday life.
- The refugees sought refuge at the border.
Which one is more common?
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