Safeguard Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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safeguard

[ˈseɪfgɑːrd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

financial security

A safeguard is a measure taken to protect someone or something from potential harm or damage, especially in the context of financial security.

Synonyms

precaution, protection, security.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
safeguard	Used to refer to measures taken to protect something from harm or damage. Vaccinations act as a safeguard against infectious diseases. Implementing encryption in data systems serves as a safeguard against cyber attacks.
protection	Signifies a state or condition where someone or something is kept safe from harm or damage. The helmet provides protection for the cyclist's head. They enforce environmental laws to ensure the protection of endangered species.
security	Generally used to denote the state of being free from danger or threat, often related to overall safety or systems preventing unauthorized access. Good cybersecurity is essential for the security of personal information online. The bank has heightened security measures to prevent theft.
precaution	Refers to actions taken in advance to prevent possible danger or harm. Washing hands frequently is a simple precaution to avoid getting sick. He took the precaution of locking all doors before leaving the house.

Examples of usage

Having a savings account is a common safeguard against unexpected expenses.
Insurance policies are essential safeguards for businesses.
The government introduced new safeguards to prevent fraud in the banking sector.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

ensure safety

To safeguard means to ensure the safety or protection of someone or something.

Synonyms

defend, protect, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
safeguard	Use in formal contexts, especially when discussing measures put in place to protect someone or something from harm. We need to safeguard the funds to ensure they are not misused. Their main goal is to safeguard the rights of the citizens.
protect	A general term used in everyday speech for ensuring someone or something is kept safe from harm or danger. Parents always want to protect their children. We need to protect the environment for future generations.
secure	Often used when talking about making something safe or preventing it from being damaged, lost, or stolen. They worked hard to secure their home against intruders. We need to secure our network from potential threats.
defend	Usually used when talking about protecting someone or something from attack or criticism, often in a more active or aggressive sense. She had to defend her position during the heated debate. The soldiers were deployed to defend the border.

Examples of usage

It is important to safeguard your personal information online.
The lifeguard's job is to safeguard swimmers at the pool.
Parents must safeguard their children from potential dangers.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

In laws and regulations, safeguards are measures put in place to protect rights and ensure safety for individuals.
The term is commonly used in environmental regulations to describe protections meant to preserve ecosystems.

Technology

In the digital world, safeguards can include passwords and encryption to protect personal information from unauthorized access.
Software companies often implement safeguards to prevent data breaches and maintain user privacy.

Public Health

During health crises, safeguards such as masks and social distancing are essential to protect against the spread of diseases.
Vaccinations act as a safeguard by preparing the immune system to fight off specific diseases.

Education

In schools, safeguards are policies and practices designed to ensure the safety and well-being of students.
Programs that teach children about safety practices, like fire drills, act as important safeguards in educational settings.

Origin of 'safeguard'

Main points about word origin

The word 'safeguard' comes from combining 'safe' and 'guard', indicating protection and security.
Originally, 'safeguard' was used in legal contexts, emphasizing protection under the law.

The word 'safeguard' originated in the late 16th century from the combination of 'safe' and 'guard'. It initially referred to a person or thing that provides protection or safety. Over time, the term expanded to include measures taken to ensure security and prevent harm. Safeguards have been essential throughout history in various contexts, from protecting valuables to maintaining personal safety.