A lien is best described as:

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A lien is a legal claim against property that serves as security for the repayment of a debt. It encumbers the property, giving the creditor a right to the property or its proceeds if the debt isn’t paid, while ownership typically remains with the borrower. This makes the description a monetary claim upon property used as security for payment of debt the best fit. It’s not about transferring ownership to the government (that would be a different concept like eminent domain), nor a zoning restriction (that governs land use), nor a property tax exemption (which reduces taxes without securing a debt). Understanding liens helps explain why debts attached to property must be resolved to clear the encumbrance before selling or financing.