heightened vigilance

USAGE SUMMARY

"heightened vigilance" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used when describing a state of increased watchfulness or attention. For example, "After the recent terrorist attacks, the airport security team was on heightened vigilance, carefully monitoring all passengers and their belongings."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Figure 4: Target effect on pupil dilations evoked by heightened vigilance.

Stanford University

But skepticism and grumbling apart, many travelers welcome the heightened vigilance.

The New York Times

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

The New York Times

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

The New Yorker

However, heightened vigilance on their CRE lending, in combination with their capital ratios, liquidity positions, and other traditional risk management measures, remains warranted and necessary.

Columbia University

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

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

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

Instead of showing heightened vigilance, Kaloti staff were happy to offer cash-in-hand in exchange for gold hand-delivered and originating from artisanal, small-scale mines (ASMs).

The Guardian - Business

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

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "heightened vigilance" to describe a situation where increased attentiveness is necessary due to potential risks or threats. For example, "The security team maintained heightened vigilance during the event."

Common error

While "heightened vigilance" is a correct and usable phrase, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation. Consider using simpler alternatives like "being extra careful" or "keeping a close eye" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "heightened vigilance" functions as a noun phrase where "heightened" modifies "vigilance". As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a state of increased watchfulness or attention. This phrase often acts as the object of a verb, such as "maintain" or "exercise."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

31%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "heightened vigilance" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that describes a state of increased watchfulness or alertness. As affirmed by Ludwig AI, it's applicable in various contexts, especially in News & Media, Science and Academia. The phrase carries a neutral to formal tone and is often used to advise or warn about potential risks. Related phrases include "increased alertness" and "enhanced awareness", each carrying slightly different nuances. When using "heightened vigilance", consider the context to ensure it aligns with the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

increased watchfulness

Synonymous but places greater emphasis on the act of watching.

increased alertness

Focuses more on the state of being alert rather than the act of watching.

intensified observation

Suggests a more deliberate and active form of watching.

enhanced awareness

Emphasizes a greater understanding of potential threats, not necessarily increased watchfulness.

stepped-up surveillance

Focuses on systematic monitoring.

greater attentiveness

Highlights the degree of attention being paid, rather than a state of readiness.

усиленная бдительность

Russian translation of “heightened vigilance”.

elevated scrutiny

Implies closer and more critical examination.

sharpened focus

Highlights improved concentration rather than broad awareness.

extra caution

Highlights being careful rather than merely watching.

FAQs

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

You can use "heightened vigilance" to describe a state of increased alertness or watchfulness. For example, "Due to the increased reports of theft, residents are asked to maintain "heightened vigilance" in their neighborhoods."

What are some alternatives to "heightened vigilance"?

Alternatives to "heightened vigilance" include "increased alertness", "enhanced awareness", or "greater attentiveness", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "heightened vigilance" formal or informal?

"Heightened vigilance" is generally considered a more formal phrase. In informal contexts, consider using phrases like "being extra careful" or "keeping a close eye".

What does "heightened vigilance" imply?

"Heightened vigilance" implies a state of increased watchfulness and attention, often in response to a perceived threat or risk. It suggests a proactive effort to monitor and prevent potential problems.