Word
safeguarding
Phoneticssafe·guard·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈseɪfˌɡɑɹdɪŋ/
UK/sˈeɪfɡɑːdɪŋ/
Definitions
01protecting vulnerable people
B2 · Upper Intermediate Uncountable noun British English · Formal
n. the rules and actions used to protect children and adults who might be at risk of harm or abuse.
n. the proactive measures and institutional policies intended to protect the welfare and human rights of children and vulnerable adults.
“All staff members must complete a safeguarding course before they start working at the school.”
“The charity updated its safeguarding policy to ensure that all volunteers were fully aware of their reporting obligations regarding child welfare.”
Usage
Often used as an uncountable noun in institutional contexts.
Teaching tip
This specific sense is very common in UK and Irish professional environments like schools, hospitals, and charities.
Synonyms
02general protection
C1 · Advanced Uncountable noun Formal
n. the act of protecting something important, like a right, a law, or the environment.
n. the act of protecting or guarding something valuable against loss, damage, or infringement.
“The safeguarding of our natural resources is essential for the future of the planet.”
“The treaty focused on the safeguarding of intellectual property rights in the digital age.”
Usage
Frequently followed by the preposition 'of'.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Real-World Examples
“The trust raised safeguarding concerns with the prison, which had been "responsive".” “But research shows that as the funding dried up, spending on looked-after children and safeguarding rose by more than half.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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