security agency
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security agency
A government organization responsible for maintaining public safety and order as well as protecting the state. Examples include the police, the domestic intelligence service, or intelligence agencies.
Die Sicherheitsbehörden warnten vor einer erhöhten Terrorgefahr in der Hauptstadt.
The security agencies warned of an increased terrorist threat in the capital.
The word is composed of 'Sicherheit' (security/safety) and 'Behörde' (authority/agency), connected by an 's'. So it literally refers to an authority or agency responsible for security.
Die örtliche Sicherheitsbehörde hat neue Richtlinien erlassen.
The local security agency issued new guidelines.
Although the word exists in the singular, it is very often used in the plural, 'die Sicherheitsbehörden' (the security agencies). This emphasizes that there are usually several such organizations in a state.
Die internationalen Sicherheitsbehörden arbeiten eng zusammen.
The international security agencies work closely together.
'Sicherheitsbehörde' (security agency) is a term from formal administrative and media language. You mainly find it in the news, political discussions, and official documents.
Ein Sprecher der Sicherheitsbehörde gab eine Pressekonferenz.
A spokesperson for the security agency gave a press conference.
police
'Polizei' and 'Sicherheitsbehörde' both belong to the area of public security. 'Polizei' means the familiar state institution that is visible in everyday life, for example at accidents, checks, or crimes. 'Sicherheitsbehörde' is a more general term for government organizations that protect security. This can include the police, but also other agencies. They can be confused because the police are a security agency. In normal everyday language, you usually say 'Polizei'. 'Sicherheitsbehörde' sounds more official and is a better fit when you are talking about several government agencies.
Die Sicherheitsbehörde prüft, ob bei der Veranstaltung genug Schutz geplant ist.
The security agency is checking whether enough protection has been planned for the event.
Nach dem Unfall rief der Fahrer sofort die Polizei.
After the accident, the driver called the police immediately.