become vigilant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "become vigilant" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when advising someone to be alert and watchful, especially in situations that require caution or awareness. Example: "In times of uncertainty, it is essential to become vigilant about our surroundings and the information we receive."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

In any case, Burberry has become vigilant about its trademark.

The New Yorker

Wildcoast workers and volunteers have become vigilant about staying in touch and avoiding obvious trouble spots.

The New York Times

Large corporate clients, also buffeted by the volatile global economic conditions, have become vigilant about reducing legal expenses.

The New York Times

Today, if I were to play wolf calls over a loudspeaker to a herd in the park, they'd become vigilant — and they'd move away.

The New York Times - Science

This, together with the tendency to somatization, may lead them to become vigilant in attachment relationships with their caregivers.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

This, together with the tendency to report more somatic complaints, may lead them to become vigilant in attachment relationships, seeking support in response to stressful situations.

The Journal of Headache and Pain

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

The woman dropped everything else and became vigilant, feeling as if she had to watch her husband day and night.

The New York Times

The government also became vigilant and introduced a better system for inspecting and granting recognition to private schools; the slipshod system of elementary education was also improved.

Encyclopedia Britannica

After 30 seconds, the nearest seal "became vigilant" and escaped into the sea, but the others seemed to remain oblivious to the danger of the frail, but still dangerous, ursine predator that stalked them from the depths.

Vice

Appropriate follow up includes a daily extremity motor examination and an evaluation for neck pain or tenderness when the patient becomes vigilant.

Critical Care

Since essential HTN is becoming more prevalent in pediatrics, it is incumbent on our community of pediatricians to become more vigilant in correctly recognizing and initiating appropriate evaluation of children with essential HTN [ 19, 20].

BMC Medical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "become vigilant" when you want to emphasize a shift in state towards heightened alertness, often in response to a perceived threat or need for caution. It is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "become vigilant" in overly casual contexts where simpler alternatives like "pay attention" or "be careful" would suffice. Overusing formal language can sound unnatural.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "become vigilant" functions as a verb phrase indicating a transition into a state of heightened alertness and watchfulness. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically correct. Examples from Ludwig show it used to describe individuals, organizations, or even entire communities.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "become vigilant" is used to describe the process of transitioning into a state of heightened awareness and watchfulness. Grammatically sound, as noted by Ludwig AI, it is often employed in contexts where there is a perceived threat or a need for increased security. While not exceedingly common, the phrase is used across various registers, leaning towards neutral and formal contexts such as news reporting and scientific articles. It signifies a proactive step towards alertness, setting it apart from simply "being vigilant". When deciding to use "become vigilant", consider the specific context and audience to ensure that it is the most appropriate choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

grow watchful

This alternative suggests a gradual increase in attentiveness.

turn attentive

This indicates a shift towards paying close attention.

get cautious

This phrase highlights the adoption of a careful and prudent approach.

start guarding

This emphasizes taking protective measures.

develop wariness

This alternative suggests a growing sense of distrust or suspicion.

heighten awareness

This focuses on increasing the level of consciousness and understanding.

sharpen observation

This means improving the ability to notice and perceive details.

cultivate attentiveness

This phrase denotes nurturing a habit of paying close attention.

exercise prudence

This emphasizes acting with care and foresight to avoid risks.

brace yourself

This suggests preparing for something difficult or dangerous.

FAQs

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

You can use "become vigilant" to describe a state of increased alertness or watchfulness, for example: "After the recent break-ins, residents have "become more vigilant" about security".

What are some alternatives to "become vigilant"?

Alternatives include "become watchful", "become alert", or "pay close attention", depending on the desired level of formality and emphasis.

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

"Become vigilant" suggests a transition into a state of alertness, while "be vigilant" describes maintaining a state of alertness. The best choice depends on whether you're describing a change or a continuous state.

What does it mean to "become more vigilant"?

To "become more vigilant" means to increase one's level of watchfulness and attentiveness, usually in response to a perceived risk or threat. It implies a deliberate effort to be more observant and cautious.