Lien Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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lien
[liːn ]
Definitions
legal
A legal claim or right against a property, which is used as security for a loan or debt.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lien |
This term is primarily used in legal and financial situations to describe a right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt owed by that person is discharged.
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| claim |
This word is used in legal and financial contexts to describe a formal request for something that is owed, such as money or property. It might not necessarily imply possession or control over the asset.
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| encumbrance |
This term is typically used in legal language to refer to any claim, lien, charge, or liability attached to a property, affecting its transferability or value.
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| charge |
This term is often used in a broader sense in both financial and legal contexts to refer to a financial obligation or the right to claim property as collateral for debt.
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Examples of usage
- The bank has a lien on the house until the mortgage is paid off.
- The mechanic placed a lien on the car until the repair bill was settled.
general
A binding or restrictive duty, obligation, or debt.
Synonyms
debt, duty, obligation.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lien |
A legal right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt owed by that person is discharged. Often used in legal and financial contexts.
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| obligation |
An act or course of action to which a person is morally or legally bound; a duty or commitment. Used in both formal and everyday settings.
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| duty |
A moral or legal obligation; a responsibility. Often used in ethical or legal discussions.
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| debt |
An amount of money owed to a person or organization. Commonly used in everyday financial situations.
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Examples of usage
- She felt a lien on her time due to her busy schedule.
- There was a lien on his freedom because of his responsibilities.
legal
To legally claim a right to property as security for a debt.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| lien |
Used in legal and financial contexts to describe a right to keep possession of property belonging to another person until a debt owed by that person is discharged.
|
| claim |
Often used to denote a demand for something due or believed to be due, such as money from an insurance policy or asserting a right to something.
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| encumber |
Typically used in legal and financial situations to describe a burden or impediment on property, such as a mortgage or other legal restriction.
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| charge |
Commonly used to indicate a financial obligation or cost associated with something. It can also describe a formal legal accusation.
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Examples of usage
- The bank can lien the property if the loan is not repaid.
- The mechanic may lien the vehicle until the repair bill is settled.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- Liens can be placed on real estate, vehicles, and other possessions, making it a common tool in debt collection.
- A mortgage is a specific type of lien, where the bank claims the property until the loan is fully paid.
- Not all liens are equal – some can take priority over others, depending on when they were filed.
Pop Culture
- Liens often come up in courtroom dramas where disputes over property and debts lead to intense showdowns.
- In popular songs, references to financial struggles can allude to liens as a metaphor for feeling trapped by debt.
- Movies about real estate often showcase the tension that liens can create when trying to buy or sell a property.
Finance
- Understanding liens is crucial for anyone entering into a loan agreement, as they affect your ownership rights.
- Liens can impact your credit score if they result from unpaid debts, influencing your ability to secure future loans.
- Some types of liens, such as tax liens, can lead to serious financial consequences, including foreclosure.
Cultural References
- In various cultures, the concept of lien reflects the importance of trust and obligation in financial transactions.
- Customs around debts and ownership can vary greatly, but the core idea of a lien as a claim is widely understood.
- Art and literature sometimes explore themes of possession and financial entanglement through the lens of liens.
Origin of 'lien'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'lien' comes from the Latin word 'ligamen', meaning 'binding', which highlights its legal nature.
- The term has been used in English since the 15th century, displaying a long-standing connection to property and ownership.
- Originally used in French law, it reflects the influence of French on English legal terminology.
The word 'lien' originated from the Middle English term 'lien', from the Anglo-French 'lien', ultimately from the Latin 'ligamen', meaning bond or tie. The legal concept of a lien has been present in various legal systems for centuries, serving as a method to secure debts and obligations. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass both legal and general obligations or duties that restrict or encumber property or rights.
See also: liar, lie, lies, lying, underlying.
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #4,126, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.
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- 4123 atomic
- 4124 qualifications
- 4125 collecting
- 4126 lien
- 4127 tie
- 4128 vacuum
- 4129 favorite
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