C2 noun Neutral

security

/sɪˈkjʊərəti/

Security refers to the state of being free from danger, threat, or fear, encompassing physical safety as well as financial and psychological stability. In academic and legal contexts, it often denotes protection against intentional harm, such as espionage or crime, or refers to tradable financial assets like stocks and bonds.

Examples

3 of 5
1

He installed a high-tech alarm system to improve his home security.

He set up an advanced electronic system to enhance the protection of his house.

2

The state's national security strategy focuses heavily on preventing cyber espionage from foreign actors.

The country's government plan for protection focuses on stopping digital spying by other nations.

3

Having a steady paycheck gives me a real sense of security.

Receiving regular money makes me feel safe and stable in my life.

Word Family

Noun
security
Verb
secure
Adverb
securely
Adjective
secure
Related
insecurity
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Memory Tip

Break the word into its Latin roots: 'se' (without) and 'cura' (care/worry). Security literally means being 'without worry'.

Quick Quiz

The bank requires the title of your car as ______ for the personal loan.

Correct!

The correct answer is: security

Examples

1

He installed a high-tech alarm system to improve his home security.

everyday

He set up an advanced electronic system to enhance the protection of his house.

2

The state's national security strategy focuses heavily on preventing cyber espionage from foreign actors.

formal

The country's government plan for protection focuses on stopping digital spying by other nations.

3

Having a steady paycheck gives me a real sense of security.

informal

Receiving regular money makes me feel safe and stable in my life.

4

Scholars argue that human security should prioritize individual well-being over traditional military defense.

academic

Academic researchers suggest that global safety should focus on people's health and rights rather than just armies.

5

The loan was granted on the condition that the company provide its property as security.

business

The bank gave the money because the company offered its real estate as a guarantee for repayment.

Word Family

Noun
security
Verb
secure
Adverb
securely
Adjective
secure
Related
insecurity

Common Collocations

national security The safety and defense of a nation-state.
security clearance Official permission to access classified information.
cyber security Protection of computer systems and networks.
security deposit A sum of money paid in advance as a guarantee when renting property.
false sense of security A feeling of being safe when one is actually in danger.

Common Phrases

security blanket

An object or person that provides a sense of comfort and safety.

tight security

Extremely strict protective measures at an event or location.

social security

A government system providing financial assistance to those with little or no income.

Often Confused With

security vs safety

Safety usually refers to protection against accidental harm, while security refers to protection against intentional, malicious harm.

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Usage Notes

Use 'security' when discussing protection against crime, war, or financial loss. In finance, it can be plural ('securities') to refer to financial instruments like bonds or stocks.

⚠️

Common Mistakes

Learners often use 'safety' when they mean 'security' in the context of guards or police. For example, 'airport safety' implies the plane won't crash, but 'airport security' implies no one will bring weapons on board.

💡

Memory Tip

Break the word into its Latin roots: 'se' (without) and 'cura' (care/worry). Security literally means being 'without worry'.

📖

Word Origin

Derived from the Latin 'securitas', from 'securus' (free from care).

Grammar Patterns

Uncountable noun when referring to a general state of safety. Countable noun ('securities') when referring to financial investments. Often used as an attributive noun (e.g., 'security guard', 'security measures').
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Cultural Context

In many Western countries, 'Social Security' specifically refers to the government-run pension and disability fund.

Quick Quiz

The bank requires the title of your car as ______ for the personal loan.

Correct!

The correct answer is: security

Related Words

overall

B2

Describing the total or general nature of something when all parts or factors are considered together. It refers to the whole of a situation rather than specific details or individual components.

overlap

B2

To cover part of the same area of space or time as something else, or to have some common qualities or features. It describes situations where two things occupy the same physical space partially or where two events happen simultaneously for a period.

overseas

B2

Relating to, coming from, or situated in a country across the sea or ocean. It is used to describe international contexts, particularly travel, trade, or living arrangements in a foreign land.

panel

B2

A panel is a small group of people brought together to discuss a specific topic, provide expert advice, or make decisions. It can also refer to a distinct, flat, and often rectangular section of a larger surface, such as a wall, door, or control board.

parameter

B2

A parameter is a limit or boundary that defines the scope of a particular process, system, or activity. In technical or mathematical contexts, it refers to a measurable factor that sets the conditions of an operation.

passive

B2

Describing someone who allows things to happen or accepts what others do without resistance or participation. It is also used in grammar to describe a sentence structure where the subject is the recipient of the action rather than the performer.

persist

B2

To continue firmly in an opinion or a course of action despite difficulty, opposition, or failure. It also refers to a state or condition that continues to exist or endure over a prolonged period.

philosophy

B2

Philosophy is the study of the fundamental nature of knowledge, reality, and existence, especially when considered as an academic discipline. It also refers to a specific set of beliefs, values, or principles that guide the behavior and outlook of an individual or an organization.

portion

B2

A portion is a part of a whole that has been divided or allocated to a specific person or purpose. It is most commonly used to describe a serving of food or a specific share of a larger amount, such as money or time.

pose

B2

To present or constitute a problem, danger, or challenge that needs to be addressed. It also refers to the physical act of assuming a specific position for a photograph, painting, or artistic work.

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