as security for

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as security for" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in legal or financial contexts to indicate that something is being used as collateral or assurance for a loan or obligation. Example: "The property was put up as security for the loan to ensure repayment."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Mr. Schwarz's mother and two of his aunts put up their two-family home in Staten Island as security for his $1 million bond.

The New York Times

Each then stands as security for the other.

The Guardian

It added it has pledged assets to GM as security for the final payment.

The New York Times

Then banks relented and accepted them as security for half their market value.

The Economist

He was able to offer these tangible assets as security for a bank loan.

The Economist

Such a law would prevent the seizure of a craftsman's tools as security for a debt.

Encyclopedia Britannica

But moonlighting as security for demolition projects adds another level of risk.

The New York Times

That meant they could be used as security for other purchases.

The Guardian

But he complained that the government had provided only 10 guards as security for the event.

The New York Times

A controlling share of the company was given as security for the loan.

The New York Times

Lehman then used this collateral as security for its loans, a standard industry procedure known as "rehypothecation".

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about financial or legal agreements, use "as security for" to clearly indicate that assets are being pledged to guarantee an obligation.

Common error

Avoid using "as security for" when referring to general safety measures or precautions; this phrase is specifically for guaranteeing debts or obligations, not general protective actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as security for" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, indicating the purpose or reason for which something is being offered or used. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is commonly used in contexts where something is being pledged to ensure an obligation is met.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

16%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as security for" is a prepositional phrase primarily used in formal contexts, particularly in legal and financial discussions, to denote that something is being pledged to guarantee an obligation. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage. While grammatically sound, it is best reserved for situations where formal assurance or collateral is being discussed. When writing, ensure that the context aligns with the intended purpose of securing a debt or obligation, and avoid using it in situations concerning general safety or protection. Consider alternatives like "as collateral for" or "as a guarantee for" to fine-tune the specific meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as collateral for

Emphasizes the specific assets used to secure a loan or obligation; more direct.

as a guarantee for

Highlights the assurance of fulfillment or protection, focuses on guaranteeing an outcome.

to secure

More concise way of expressing the act of making something safe or certain.

in pledge for

Implies a formal agreement where something is given as a promise or assurance.

to act as surety for

Indicates someone is acting as a guarantor or cosigner for a debt or obligation.

to serve as insurance for

Suggests the provision is meant to mitigate risk or provide compensation in case of loss.

in lieu of

Indicates something is being offered as a substitute or replacement for security.

to underwrite

Formal term in finance for assuming financial risk or guaranteeing an investment.

as backing for

Indicates support or resources are being provided to ensure stability or success.

as protection against

Focuses on shielding or safeguarding against a potential threat or negative outcome.

FAQs

How is "as security for" used in legal contexts?

In legal settings, "as security for" indicates that an asset is pledged to guarantee the fulfillment of an obligation, such as a loan or a bond. For example, property might be offered "as collateral for" a loan.

What are some alternatives to "as security for"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "as collateral for", "as a guarantee for", or "to secure". Choose the phrase that best fits the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "as security for" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "as security for" is generally more suited to formal or technical writing. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "as a guarantee" or "to protect" may be more appropriate.

Can "as security for" be used when referring to personal safety?

No, "as security for" is typically used in financial or legal contexts related to debts or obligations. For personal safety, use phrases like "for protection" or "as a safeguard".