exercising vigilance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "exercising vigilance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of being watchful or alert, particularly in contexts related to safety, security, or awareness. Example: "In today's digital age, exercising vigilance is crucial to protect personal information from cyber threats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

He added that he had "made arrangements" in case those "exercising vigilance get a break which we can exploit".

The Guardian

Instead of exercising vigilance against potential wrongdoing, employees – even those at senior level – are expected to maintain harmony and avoid gaining a reputation as a troublemaker.

The Guardian - Business

Mark Testoni, a national security and privacy expert who is chief executive of SAP National Security Services, said in an email that he recommended exercising "vigilance bordering on a little paranoia" in online posts.

The New York Times - Tech

Armstrong reported that "those concerned are exercising vigilance for any indications of movements of NUM staff to foreign destinations which might be for the purpose of collecting consignments of notes".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

In March, the State Department encouraged citizens to "exercise vigilance when in public places or using mass transportation".

The Guardian

Mr. Kanjilal said that tour operators always recommend that female travelers exercise vigilance and visit tourist spots within certain hours.

The New York Times

Likewise, it is the diocesan bishop's role to exercise vigilance with regard to the way in which Catholic associations perform the tasks they set for themselves".

The New York Times

It calls on all countries "to exercise vigilance" in entering into new trade commitments with Iran, including granting export credits, guarantees or insurance.

The Guardian

When it is carried on by methods of barbarism in South Africa". Unless we exercise vigilance over our leaders, they will fall for the tempting arguments that lead to area bombing, or its modern equivalent.

The Guardian - Books

While older drafts had mandated that all states "prevent entry" of such people, the final version of the resolution simply "calls upon" states to "exercise vigilance" over their borders.

The New York Times

Mr. Ashcroft and Mr. Mueller spoke briefly to reporters in the auditorium at the Justice Department and had no suggestions about what Americans should do in response to the new warning except to exercise "vigilance".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about security or safety protocols, using "exercising vigilance" can emphasize the ongoing nature of these practices. For example, in cybersecurity, it's not a one-time setup, it requires "exercising vigilance" against new threats.

Common error

Avoid using "exercising vigilance" in casual conversation; it sounds overly formal. Opt for simpler alternatives like "being careful" or "staying alert" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "exercising vigilance" functions as a gerund phrase acting as a noun, often describing an action or state of being watchful and cautious. As Ludwig AI indicates, it is a correct and usable phrase in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "exercising vigilance" is a grammatically correct phrase that describes the act of being watchful and alert. As stated by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for formal contexts, such as news reports, safety guidelines, and security protocols. While its frequency is relatively rare, its use effectively conveys the importance of proactive awareness and caution. The phrase is most commonly found in news and media sources, with other contexts including formal business and scientific writing. When a less formal tone is desired, alternatives like "staying alert" or "being careful" are more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Staying vigilant

A more concise way of expressing the same idea.

Maintaining watchfulness

Focuses on the continuous aspect of keeping watch.

Practicing alertness

Highlights the active habit of being alert.

Remaining observant

Emphasizes the act of noticing and paying attention.

Keeping a close watch

Suggests careful and attentive observation.

Ensuring constant monitoring

Focuses on ensuring that vigilance is ongoing.

Being on the lookout

Implies actively searching for potential threats or issues.

Exercising due diligence

Highlights the thoroughness and care taken in monitoring.

Displaying attentiveness

Focuses on the quality of attention being given.

Adopting a proactive approach to security

Shifts the focus to a deliberate and forward-thinking security mindset.

FAQs

What does "exercising vigilance" mean?

The phrase "exercising vigilance" refers to the act of being watchful, alert, and cautious, especially regarding potential dangers or issues. It implies an ongoing effort to maintain awareness.

How can I use "exercising vigilance" in a sentence?

You can use "exercising vigilance" to describe the act of being watchful or alert. For example, "The security team is /s/maintaining+watchfulness, particularly at night."

What are some alternatives to "exercising vigilance"?

Alternatives include "staying vigilant", "remaining observant", or "keeping a close watch" depending on the context.

In what contexts is "exercising vigilance" most appropriate?

"Exercising vigilance" is often used in formal settings, such as security protocols, safety guidelines, or official recommendations. It's particularly fitting when describing ongoing efforts to prevent potential harm or problems.