be vigilant

USAGE SUMMARY

"be vigilant" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used as an imperative sentence or a command to urge someone to stay alert and watchful. Example: "As a security guard, it is important to always be vigilant for any suspicious activity."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

We must be vigilant.

The New York Times

Let's be vigilant.

The New York Times

Be vigilant against rigging.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Government must be vigilant.

University of California, Berkeley

We can be vigilant".

The New York Times

"Be vigilant!", she says.

The Guardian

Consumers must also be vigilant.

The New York Times

I've got to be vigilant.

The New York Times - Sports

Be vigilant without being paranoid.

The Guardian - Travel

"We must all be vigilant".

The Guardian

"I'll be vigilant," he responded.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "be vigilant", specify what the subject should be vigilant about or for. For example, "Be vigilant for phishing attempts" is more effective than simply "Be vigilant."

Common error

Avoid using "be vigilant" as a standalone statement without specifying the subject of vigilance. The phrase is most effective when it clearly indicates what potential dangers or issues the audience should be watching for.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be vigilant" primarily functions as an imperative, issuing a direct command or strong recommendation to maintain a state of heightened alertness. This is supported by Ludwig AI's finding that it is "typically used as an imperative sentence or a command to urge someone to stay alert and watchful."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Academia

20%

Wiki

18%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be vigilant" is a grammatically correct and frequently used imperative phrase that urges watchfulness and alertness. Ludwig AI confirms its typical use as a command. It is appropriate for a variety of contexts, from news reports to academic papers, though it is most commonly found in News & Media, Academia and Wiki sources. When using the phrase, it is important to specify what the subject should be vigilant about to avoid vagueness. Related phrases such as "stay watchful" or "remain alert" can provide alternative ways to convey a similar meaning. Ultimately, "be vigilant" serves as a strong and direct call to action, prompting proactive awareness and caution.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stay watchful

Replaces "be" with "stay", emphasizing a continuous state of watchfulness.

remain alert

Uses "remain" instead of "be", focusing on maintaining a state of alertness.

maintain vigilance

Nominalizes "vigilant", changing the structure to emphasize sustained vigilance.

keep watch

Employs the idiomatic expression "keep watch", suggesting a continuous monitoring action.

be on the lookout

Uses the idiomatic phrase "be on the lookout", suggesting a state of active searching.

exercise caution

Shifts the focus to the action of being careful and prudent.

be attentive

Focuses on paying close attention to potential dangers or irregularities.

be observant

Highlights the act of noticing and paying attention to surroundings.

stay sharp

Emphasizes the need to be mentally acute and responsive.

be careful

A more general phrase emphasizing caution and awareness of potential risks.

FAQs

How can I use "be vigilant" in a sentence?

Use "be vigilant" as a command or instruction, typically followed by a prepositional phrase specifying what one should be watchful for. For example, "be vigilant against rigging" or "be vigilant about dusting".

What phrases are similar to "be vigilant"?

Alternatives include "stay watchful", "remain alert", and "keep watch". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "be vigilant" or "be careful"?

"Be careful" is a more general warning to avoid harm or mistakes. "Be vigilant" implies a need for focused alertness to detect specific potential dangers or problems. Vigilance involves a sustained and focused watchfulness, which is more directed than just being careful.

Can "be vigilant" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "be vigilant" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when emphasizing the need for careful observation and proactive awareness in professional, academic, or official contexts.