protegernos

Protegernos is a Spanish reflexive verb form that means "to protect ourselves." It combines the verb proteger with the reflexive pronoun nos, indicating that the action is performed by a group that includes the speaker. It is commonly used to express actions taken to shield a group from harm or risk, and it is often followed by de + the threat or risk (protegernos de una enfermedad, de un robo, de la desinformación), though it can also appear without de when the context is clear.

Grammatical notes: as an infinitive, protegernos can follow modal verbs or impersonal constructions (Tenemos que protegernos; Es importante protegernos). It is conjugated like other reflexive verbs: nos protegemos (we protect ourselves); protejámonos (let us protect ourselves); nos protegimos (we protected ourselves); nos protegíamos (we were protecting ourselves). The form emphasizes collective self-protection within a group.

Contexts and usage: protegernos is common in discussions of health, safety, privacy, and rights, as well as in public campaigns and policy rhetoric that urge collective action. Examples include protegernos de contagios, protegernos de la delincuencia, protegernos contra la desinformación, and protegernos ante el cambio climático. It also appears in everyday speech to express mutual or group responsibility for personal well-being and safety.

See also: Protección, Autoprotección, Protección civil, Ciberseguridad. The phrase is flexible across domains, from individual habits to broader societal measures, reflecting a shared emphasis on safeguarding the group including the speaker.