heighten vigilance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "heighten vigilance" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you want to emphasize the need for increased awareness or alertness, often in relation to safety or security. Example: "In light of recent events, we must heighten vigilance to ensure the safety of our community."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

After the threats on Saturday, South Korea ordered its military to heighten vigilance along the heavily fortified border with North Korea.

The New York Times

After the threats on Saturday, South Korea ordered its military to heighten vigilance along the heavily fortified border with North Korea, according to a spokesman for the South Korean military joint chiefs of staff.

The New York Times

Given the spread of NAP1/BI/027 strains in other parts of the world, this increased incidence in Singapore should heighten vigilance for the introduction of outbreak strains into Asia.

Emerging Infectious Diseases

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

He said that it was safe for people to go out, but asked them to exercise heightened vigilance.

The New Yorker

In addition, his lawyers say, the campaign was constantly sensitive to federal officials' heightened vigilance on campaign finance.

The New York Times

Mr. Ashcroft says he simply wants to give citizens "a basis for continuing to live their lives the way they would otherwise live them" but with heightened vigilance.

The New York Times

In human studies, the sweat of frightened people has been shown to cause anxiety and heightened vigilance, and even to enhance cognitive performance on tests.

The New York Times - Science

Consumers should bring heightened vigilance, the kind usually reserved for inspecting cars after floods and other natural disasters, to their used-car shopping, Mr. Widmer said.

The New York Times

Shall I purchase booties?" It is the conviction that all — every single angle — must be foreseen that can turn heightened vigilance into a dizzying cognitive spiral.

The New York Times

The Oakland Association of Realtors, which has more than 1,000 members and includes Piedmont and Emeryville, sent out an e-mail bulletin last week encouraging "heightened vigilance," said Judy Rix, the office supervisor.

The New York Times

South Korean President Park Geun-hye has called for heightened vigilance against any further provocation following the launch and North Korea's fourth nuclear test last month.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "heighten vigilance", consider the specific context. It often implies a response to a perceived threat or increased risk, so ensure this is clear in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "heighten vigilance" in everyday situations. The phrase carries a formal tone and is best suited for situations involving security, safety, or serious concerns.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heighten vigilance" functions as a verb phrase where 'heighten' acts as a transitive verb taking 'vigilance' as its direct object. It expresses the action of increasing or intensifying a state of alertness. Ludwig confirms this usage.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "heighten vigilance" is a call to increase watchfulness and alertness, typically in response to potential threats or risks. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is grammatically correct and suitable for formal contexts, especially in news, science, and professional communications. While alternatives like "increase alertness" or "boost awareness" exist, "heighten vigilance" carries a more formal and serious tone. Remember to reserve it for situations where increased awareness is directly linked to safety or security concerns.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increase alertness

Focuses on the state of being watchful; changes the verb and noun for a different emphasis.

boost awareness

Emphasizes making something more known or understood; uses a more casual verb.

intensify monitoring

Highlights more frequent and rigorous observation; uses stronger synonyms.

enhance surveillance

Highlights active observation and monitoring; uses a more formal noun.

escalate watchfulness

Suggests a gradual increase in being alert; changes the tone and rhythm.

sharpen scrutiny

Implies a more critical and detailed examination; uses a different pair of words that describe the concept.

step up attentiveness

Highlights the act of paying close attention; a more personal or individual focus.

amplify caution

Stresses the importance of being careful; less common but conveys a similar meaning.

deepen inspection

Emphasizes a more thorough examination; relevant in contexts requiring detailed checks.

fortify security

Focuses on strengthening protective measures; a more specific application.

FAQs

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

You can use "heighten vigilance" to suggest an increased state of alert, as in "The recent threats led the authorities to "heighten vigilance" along the border".

What are some alternatives to "heighten vigilance"?

Alternatives include "increase alertness", "boost awareness", or "enhance surveillance", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "heighten vigilance"?

"Heighten vigilance" is best used in formal contexts related to security, safety, or health, such as government announcements, medical advisories, or security protocols.

What is the difference between "heighten vigilance" and "increase awareness"?

"Heighten vigilance" implies a state of readiness and watchfulness against potential threats, while "increase awareness" focuses more on general knowledge and understanding of a situation.