be watchful

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "be watchful" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to advise someone to be alert or attentive to their surroundings or a particular situation. Example: "As you walk through the crowded market, be watchful for pickpockets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

I quickly learned to be watchful.

The Guardian

We have to be watchful.

The Guardian - Business

In England you have to be watchful.

The Guardian - Sport

She does, however, have to be watchful about her involvement.

Independent

Mr. Dubey still makes it a point to be watchful.

The New York Times

The public must be watchful and alert," he added.

The Guardian

This is when the platelets can really fall and we need to be watchful.

The New York Times

"Still there's plenty to be watchful about with respect to the consumer".

The New York Times

"My responsibility is to be watchful for the public's most treasured piece of land," he said.

The New York Times

Bad things were not very far behind him, and he meant to be watchful.

The New Yorker

Neither batsman looks entirely comfortable when trying to be watchful against him.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When advising someone to "be watchful" in a potentially dangerous situation, follow it with specific details about what they should be looking for. For example, "Be watchful for suspicious packages and report them immediately."

Common error

While "be watchful" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more precise and nuanced vocabulary like "remain vigilant" or "exercise diligence" to convey a more sophisticated tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "be watchful" functions primarily as an imperative, giving a command or instruction to someone to pay close attention. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It prompts the listener or reader to exercise vigilance and awareness in a given situation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

27%

Science

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

4%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "be watchful" is a versatile imperative phrase used to advise or command someone to pay close attention. As Ludwig AI highlights, it's considered grammatically correct and sees frequent usage. It is commonly found in news, media, and WikiHow articles, with a neutral tone suitable for various situations. While useful, it's important to consider context and opt for more formal alternatives like "be vigilant" in academic or professional settings. Remembering to provide specific details alongside the command enhances its effectiveness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

be vigilant

Emphasizes a higher degree of alertness and readiness for potential danger or problems. It is slightly more formal.

be alert

Highlights quickness in noticing and responding to potential issues. It's a very close synonym but focuses on immediate awareness.

be observant

Focuses on paying close attention to details and noticing things that might otherwise be missed. It centers on the act of observing carefully.

keep an eye out

An idiomatic expression meaning to watch for something specific. It's more informal and conversational.

stay aware

Stresses maintaining a general consciousness of one's surroundings and potential threats. It's slightly broader in scope.

exercise caution

Suggests acting with prudence and care to avoid potential problems. It advises careful behavior.

be on your guard

Implies preparing for potential threats or attacks. It is a more defensive posture.

pay attention

A general call to focus one's mental energy on something. It is applicable in many different situations.

remain attentive

Emphasizes the importance of continuous and focused awareness. It's slightly more formal.

be careful

Advises to avoid risks and take precautions. It's a general warning to be safe.

FAQs

What does "be watchful" mean?

The phrase "be watchful" means to be alert, observant, and vigilant. It implies paying close attention to your surroundings or a particular situation to avoid potential danger or problems.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "be watchful"?

It is appropriate to use "be watchful" when you want to advise someone to pay close attention and "be alert" to their surroundings or a specific situation. It's suitable in various contexts, from warning someone about potential pickpockets to advising caution in a business deal.

What can I say instead of "be watchful"?

You can use alternatives like "be vigilant", "be alert", "keep an eye out", or "stay aware" depending on the context.

Is "be watchful" formal or informal?

The phrase "be watchful" is generally considered neutral in formality. While acceptable in many contexts, it may be more appropriate to use more formal alternatives like "remain vigilant" or "exercise caution" in academic or highly professional settings.