being on guard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being on guard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of vigilance or readiness to respond to potential danger or challenges. Example: "In a high-stakes negotiation, it's essential to be on guard against any deceptive tactics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Among the symptoms of Post-traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) that many of our most recent war veterans will carry with them for the rest of their lives, hypervigilance -- the experience of being "on guard" and prepared for the worst every waking minute -- will be one of the most pervasive.

Huffington Post

This pattern of symptoms, known as post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD, can include emotional numbness, intrusive memories of the traumatic event, and hyperarousal (increased awareness of one's surroundings, or constantly being "on guard").

Huffington Post

It's being on guard".

The New Yorker

Being able to respond to somebody without constantly being on guard would be dangerous.

Yale University

Adrenaline levels stay elevated, causing anxiety, irritability, and hypervigilance (being on guard even in safe places).

Harvard University

Being on guard for terrorist activity will require new computer programs, new personnel and much more coordination with law enforcement, participants said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 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

Others are on guard duty.

The New York Times

But I was on guard.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a temporary state of alert, it may be more precise to use the form "be on guard".

Common error

Avoid using "being on guard" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise or sophisticated language may be preferred. Consider "maintaining vigilance" or "exercising caution" in such contexts.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being on guard" functions as a nominal phrase, often serving as a subject complement or part of a longer noun phrase. It describes a state or condition of vigilance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

16%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "being on guard" effectively conveys a state of vigilance or preparedness. Ludwig AI indicates that it's a correct and usable phrase in English, commonly found in News & Media and Academic contexts. While grammatically sound, it's important to consider formality when choosing alternative expressions like "remaining vigilant" or "staying alert". The phrase serves to communicate the necessity for caution, emphasizing awareness and readiness for potential challenges.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remaining vigilant

Emphasizes continuous watchfulness and alertness.

staying alert

Focuses on maintaining awareness of surroundings.

keeping watch

Suggests a more active observation role.

maintaining vigilance

Highlights the act of upholding a state of alertness.

exercising caution

Indicates careful consideration and wariness.

being watchful

Similar to staying alert but implies a protective aspect.

prepared for anything

Focuses on readiness to face potential challenges.

on high alert

Describes a state of heightened readiness.

on the lookout

Suggests actively searching for potential threats.

taking precautions

Implies proactive measures to prevent negative outcomes.

FAQs

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

"Being on guard" is used to describe a state of vigilance or readiness. For example, "After the incident, everyone was "being on guard"."

What are some alternatives to "being on guard"?

You can use alternatives like "remaining vigilant", "staying alert", or "keeping watch" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "be on guard" or "being on guard"?

The choice between "be on guard" and "being on guard" depends on the grammatical structure of your sentence. "Be on guard" is often used as an imperative or in conditional statements, while "being on guard" functions as a gerund or part of a continuous tense.

In what situations is it appropriate to use the expression "being on guard"?

The expression "being on guard" is appropriate in situations where there is a perceived need to be vigilant or cautious, such as after a security breach or when dealing with potentially untrustworthy individuals. It emphasizes a state of readiness and awareness.