Translation

保険 / 損害保険 / 生命保険

Meaning

Insurance is an arrangement where you pay regular amounts of money (a 'premium') to a company, and in return the company pays your costs if something bad happens — like illness, an accident, or damage to your property. Common types include 'health insurance', 'car insurance', 'travel insurance', and 'life insurance'. 'Insurance' is an uncountable noun: you do not say 'an insurance', but you can say 'an insurance policy' or 'insurance coverage'. Japanese learners should note that 'assurance' (British English) is sometimes used for life insurance specifically.

Examples

• 健康保険に入っていますか？
  Do you have health insurance?
• 海外旅行前に旅行保険に加入した。
  I bought travel insurance before going overseas.