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safeguards

SAYF-gahrds ˈseɪfɡɑːrdz

nounC1TOEFLIELTS

FormalPoliticalTechnical

Measures taken to protect against something undesirable or to ensure compliance with an agreement. In nuclear terms, a system of international inspections and monitoring to prevent the diversion of nuclear materials from peaceful uses to weapons programs.

Implies protective or preventative measures, often institutional, legal, or technical, designed to ensure security, safety, or compliance.

The story behind the word. The word 'safeguard' is a compound of 'safe' and 'guard.' It has been used since the 15th century to mean a protection or defense. Its specific application to international nuclear monitoring systems became central with the establishment of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in 1957, which was tasked with ensuring the peaceful use of nuclear technology and preventing its diversion to weapons.

Word relationships

protections: General term for measures to protect.
guarantees: Formal promises or assurances; 'safeguards' are the mechanisms to ensure those promises are kept.
controls: Measures taken to regulate or direct something; 'safeguards' are a type of control focused on prevention.

Word family

safeguard (verb): To protect from harm or damage with an appropriate measure.

Collocations

nuclear safeguards
IAEA safeguards
strengthen safeguards
implement safeguards
technical safeguards

Example sentences

"The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) applies robust safeguards to nuclear facilities worldwide to verify that nuclear material is not diverted for weapons purposes." Discussing nuclear non-proliferation.
"New financial regulations include strong safeguards to protect consumers from predatory lending practices." Referring to consumer protection.
"The company implemented strict data safeguards after the recent cyberattack." In a general security context.

Memory hook

These measures literally 'SAFE-GUARD' against undesirable outcomes, like nuclear materials falling into the wrong hands. Protective measures.

When not to use

For simple protection, 'protection' or 'security' might suffice. 'Safeguards' often implies a structured system or set of rules implemented to prevent specific risks or ensure adherence to standards.

Fun facts

The IAEA's safeguards system involves on-site inspections, surveillance cameras, and seals at nuclear facilities to verify compliance with non-proliferation commitments.

Related words

non-proliferation, sanctions

Explore more words

safeguard, Countermeasure, precaution, protective, protect, data protection