are on guard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are on guard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is being watchful or alert, often in a context of caution or readiness for potential danger. Example: "The security personnel are on guard to ensure the safety of the event attendees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

Three young special police officers (SPOs) are on guard duty, sharing one rifle, which is chained to a log, to make it more difficult for the Naxalites to steal.

The Guardian

Others are on guard duty.

The New York Times

On every ridge soldiers are on guard.

The Economist

I think we are on guard now".

The Guardian - Tech

Media execs are on guard too.

The Guardian - Tech

But lawmakers are on guard from either side.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Their methods can be very subtle and sophisticated, so be on-guard.

WikiHow

"But one must always be on guard and never forget what happened".

BBC

So, be on guard.

The New York Times - Health

It's being on guard".

The New Yorker

But I was on guard.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "are on guard" to convey a state of readiness and vigilance, especially when potential threats or dangers are present. For example, 'The border patrol officers "are on guard" against any illegal crossings'.

Common error

Avoid using "are on guard" in contexts where simple awareness or attentiveness is sufficient. The phrase implies a level of threat or risk that warrants a heightened state of alert. Using it too casually can sound unnatural or overdramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are on guard" functions primarily as a verbal phrase indicating a state of vigilance or readiness. Ludwig examples show this phrase in contexts where individuals or groups are prepared for potential threats or dangers, indicating an active role in maintaining security.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are on guard" is a common and grammatically correct verbal phrase used to indicate a state of vigilance or readiness. As demonstrated by Ludwig, it is most frequently found in news and media contexts, conveying that individuals or groups are actively monitoring or protecting against potential threats. Alternatives such as "are vigilant" or "are watchful" offer similar meanings, depending on the specific context. It's important to use "are on guard" when there's a perceived threat and not in situations that require mere awareness. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase follows standard grammar rules and is used across various reliable sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are vigilant

This alternative emphasizes watchfulness and alertness, focusing on careful observation to detect potential issues.

are watchful

This phrase highlights attentiveness and careful observation, especially to prevent something undesirable from happening.

are alert

Focuses on quickness to perceive and act, stressing immediate readiness to respond to threats or opportunities.

are prepared

This variant emphasizes readiness and being equipped to handle potential dangers or challenges.

are protecting

This alternative emphasizes the active role of defending or shielding from harm or danger.

are safeguarding

This phrase highlights the act of protecting something valuable or important from harm or damage.

are defending

This suggests a more active role in protecting against attacks or threats, indicating a strong defensive posture.

are standing watch

This alternative implies a formal duty or responsibility to observe and protect, often in a security context.

are keeping watch

Focuses on continuous observation, suggesting constant monitoring to detect any signs of trouble.

are keeping a lookout

This alternative highlights the act of actively searching for potential threats or dangers, implying a proactive approach.

FAQs

How can I use "are on guard" in a sentence?

You can use "are on guard" to indicate that someone is being watchful and ready for potential danger. For example, "The soldiers "are on guard" at the border."

What can I say instead of "are on guard"?

You can use alternatives like "are vigilant", "are watchful", or "are alert" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "are on guard"?

It's appropriate to use "are on guard" when there is a perceived threat or a need for increased vigilance. It suggests a state of readiness to respond to potential danger, more than just basic awareness.

Is "be on guard" different from "are on guard"?

"Be on guard" is an imperative or a suggestion to adopt a state of vigilance, while "are on guard" indicates a current state of vigilance. For example, "You should be on guard" versus "They are on guard".