alert

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "alert" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a state of heightened alertness or awareness, whether it be physical, mental, or emotional. Example sentence: After weeks of training, the troops were on high alert, ready for any possible danger.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

One of the hallmarks of the early culture wars was that both sides were equally alert to minor slights.

The Guardian - Opinion

In Auschwitz, "We lived in a constant state of high alert.

The Guardian - Music

Herald Sun staff have been told if they see "our content being entirely rewritten", they should alert the boss.

The Guardian

You show micro-awakenings because your brain remains partially alert for the presence of an attacker".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Attempts to alert the local military post by telephone were hampered by unanswered calls and poor phone networks.

The Guardian

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 1.43pm AEST02:43 It's another strong language alert, and no wonder – A$AP Rocky's Fuckin' Problems is next up at 79, boasting Drake, 2 Chainz and Kendrick Lamar, whose guest spot wins this song for my money.

The Guardian

Widdop looked set to score only to be impeded by Hodges as he chased his grubber kick, but winger Eto Nabuli was alert enough to take advantage of Vidot's dithering to get his hand to the ball.

The Guardian - Sport

"The blasts are down [in number] but the reality is the threats are existing … Everyone is on [the] alert," he said.

The Guardian

He said his company's vaults had seismic and modular sensors that, if tampered with, would alert a 24/7 CCTV security company.

The Guardian

I didn't intend to scare them, merely alert them to the fact that they would be living next door to a family that – although we might have a higher-than-average noise level during daylight hours – is not disrespectful or antisocial.

The Guardian - Money

Hibbert had to be alert in the 12th minute when Maksim Skavysh skipped away and made a crucial challenge.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "alert" to describe a state of vigilance or readiness, particularly in situations involving potential risks or opportunities. For example: "The border patrol remained alert for any signs of illegal crossing."

Common error

Avoid using "alert" interchangeably with "alarm". "Alert" describes a state of heightened awareness, while "alarm" refers to a device or signal that warns of danger. Incorrect: "The security guard sounded the alert when he saw the intruder". Correct: "The security guard sounded the alarm when he saw the intruder".

Linguistic Context

The word "alert" functions primarily as an adjective, describing a state of being watchful, attentive, and prepared for potential dangers or opportunities. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where "alert" modifies nouns to indicate this heightened awareness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Sport

10%

Business

7%

Less common in

Lifestyle

6%

Opinion

3%

Tech

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "alert" is primarily used as an adjective to describe a state of heightened awareness and readiness, often in the context of potential risks or opportunities. Ludwig AI confirms its common usage in various contexts, especially within news and media sources. When writing, it's crucial to distinguish "alert" from similar terms like "alarm", ensuring precise communication. Related phrases like "vigilant", "watchful", and "attentive" offer alternative ways to convey similar meanings with nuanced differences. By understanding these distinctions, writers can effectively and accurately use "alert" in their writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

vigilant

Focuses more on careful observation and readiness to detect potential danger or difficulties.

watchful

Emphasizes careful observation and attentiveness to what is happening.

attentive

Highlights being observant and responsive, especially to needs or signals.

on guard

Indicates a state of readiness and preparedness to defend against potential threats.

aware

Emphasizes consciousness and knowledge of surrounding circumstances or potential risks.

heedful

Stresses paying close attention and giving careful consideration to something.

mindful

Implies being conscious and aware of something, often with a sense of responsibility.

on the lookout

Suggests actively searching for something specific, often potential danger or opportunity.

forewarned

Implies being informed in advance of potential danger or problems.

prepared

Highlights readiness and having made arrangements to deal with potential situations.

FAQs

How can I use "alert" in a sentence?

You can use "alert" to describe someone who is watchful and quick to notice things, as in "The cashier was "alert" enough to spot the fake bill". It can also describe a state of readiness, like "Security forces are on "alert" after the bomb threat".

What is a synonym for "alert"?

Synonyms for "alert" include "vigilant", "watchful", and "attentive". The best choice depends on the specific context.

What's the difference between "alert" and "aware"?

"Alert" implies a heightened state of readiness and quickness to perceive and react, while "aware" simply means having knowledge or consciousness of something. You might be "aware" of a problem without being particularly "alert" to its immediate consequences.

When should I use "alert" vs. "alarmed"?

"Alert" suggests a prepared or watchful state, while "alarmed" implies a feeling of anxiety or fear in response to a perceived danger. You might be "alert" to potential risks during a negotiation, but "alarmed" by a sudden and unexpected turn of events.