be on high alert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'be on high alert' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when there is an important situation that requires caution, watchfulness or readiness, such as when there is a natural disaster or a security threat. For example, "Due to the heavy storms in the area, we are being advised to be on high alert for potential flooding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

If a breach occurs, be on high alert and do all necessary checks to see if your child's identity has been compromised.

WikiHow

You really have to be on high alert.

The New York Times

Be on high alert for bonus-point didgeridoos and bongos.

Independent

Experts said the world should still be on high alert.

The New York Times - Health

However, security forces will be on high alert for the World Cup.

The Guardian - Sport

The likes of Rob Key, Mark Ramprakash and Michael Carberry will be on high alert now.

The Guardian - Sport

It is, after all, somewhat exhausting to be on high alert.

Harvard Business Review

We're not designed to be on high alert and putting in lots of effort on a no-recovery basis".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Officials in Sacramento will be on high-alert Sunday.

Los Angeles Times

It's estimated to cost more than £100 million annually, and it's likely the police and Ministry of Defence would be on high-alert for a state funeral.

Vice

It sounds messed up and discriminatory that pregnant folks need to be on high-alert to STIs during this time, but blame it on a compromised immune system.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be on high alert", ensure the context clearly explains what the potential danger or threat is. For example, "Due to the approaching hurricane, residents are advised to "be on high alert" for potential flooding".

Common error

Avoid using "be on high alert" in situations that do not warrant a significant level of caution or vigilance. Overusing the phrase can desensitize readers and diminish its impact when it is genuinely needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be on high alert" functions primarily as a directive, urging individuals or groups to increase their awareness and readiness in response to a potential threat or danger. Ludwig provides examples across various domains, reinforcing this function.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "be on high alert" is a directive urging vigilance and readiness in response to potential threats. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and its prevalent use in various contexts, especially in News & Media and Formal & Business domains. Its communicative purpose is to warn and prepare, with a register ranging from neutral to professional. While the phrase is "correct and usable", overuse should be avoided to maintain its impact. As Ludwig AI suggests, awareness of the situation calling for increased vigilance should be considered.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be extremely watchful

Emphasizes the degree of watchfulness required.

be extra cautious

Stresses the need for heightened care.

remain vigilant

Focuses on maintaining a state of watchfulness.

stay watchful

Highlights the act of continuously observing for potential threats.

exercise caution

Emphasizes the need for careful actions and decisions.

be on the lookout

Suggests actively searching for something specific.

keep a sharp lookout

Suggests a proactive approach to spotting potential dangers.

be prepared

Highlights readiness and preparedness.

be attentive

Highlights the need to be observant and responsive.

pay close attention

Focuses on carefully observing and listening.

FAQs

How can I use "be on high alert" in a sentence?

You can use "be on high alert" to advise vigilance in the face of potential danger. For instance, "Tourists in Europe "be on high alert" following terror warnings from the U.S. State Department".

What does it mean to "be on high alert"?

To "be on high alert" means to be in a state of heightened awareness and readiness, prepared to respond quickly to potential threats or emergencies. It implies a need for increased vigilance and caution.

What are some alternatives to "be on high alert"?

Alternatives include "remain vigilant", "exercise caution", or "stay watchful", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the phrase "be on high alert"?

It is appropriate to use the phrase "be on high alert" when there is a credible threat or potential danger that requires immediate and focused attention. This can include natural disasters, security threats, or significant operational changes.