protocolo
/proh-toh-KOH-loh/
protocol
The image illustrates protocolo as official rules and customs, showing two figures following strict etiquette.
protocolo(noun)
protocol
?official rules and customs
,etiquette
?social/diplomatic manners
rules of conduct
?general guidelines
📝 In Action
El embajador siguió el protocolo al pie de la letra durante la cena real.
B2The ambassador followed the protocol to the letter during the royal dinner.
¿Conoces el protocolo para saludar a un presidente?
B1Do you know the proper etiquette for greeting a president?
El error causó un problema diplomático porque rompieron el protocolo.
B1The mistake caused a diplomatic problem because they broke protocol.
💡 Grammar Points
Always Masculine
Even though it ends in '-o', remember 'protocolo' is always a masculine word, so you must use 'el' (el protocolo) or 'un' (un protocolo).
⭐ Usage Tips
Formal Contexts
This meaning is usually reserved for formal, official, or diplomatic settings where rules of conduct are strictly defined.
This image shows protocolo meaning a detailed step-by-step procedure, visualized by a simple sequence of actions.
protocolo(noun)
procedure
?detailed step-by-step plan
,protocol
?scientific/medical plan or guidelines
guidelines
?set of instructions
📝 In Action
El médico explicó el protocolo de tratamiento para la nueva enfermedad.
B2The doctor explained the treatment protocol (procedure) for the new disease.
Debemos seguir el protocolo de seguridad antes de entrar al laboratorio.
B2We must follow the safety protocol (procedure) before entering the laboratory.
El protocolo de internet (IP) permite la comunicación entre computadoras.
C1The internet protocol (IP) allows communication between computers.
💡 Grammar Points
Technical Usage
In technical fields, 'protocolo' refers to a written, mandatory set of steps or instructions that must be followed precisely to ensure a specific outcome.
⭐ Usage Tips
IT Context
In technology (like computers and the internet), 'protocolo' is a direct translation of the English technical term 'protocol' (e.g., TCP/IP).
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: protocolo
Question 1 of 1
Which sentence uses 'protocolo' in the sense of a scientific or technical plan?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'protocolo' always used in formal situations?
Yes, 'protocolo' almost always implies a degree of seriousness or formality. Whether you are talking about diplomatic etiquette or a scientific procedure, it means following a precise, established set of rules, not just casual guidelines.
How do I know if 'protocolo' means etiquette or procedure?
Look at the context! If it involves behavior, greetings, or official ceremonies (e.g., 'protocolo diplomático'), it means etiquette. If it involves medicine, science, or technology (e.g., 'protocolo de seguridad'), it means a step-by-step plan or procedure.