is alert

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is alert" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is attentive, watchful, or aware of their surroundings. Example: "The security guard is alert, watching for any unusual activity in the area."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tunable steering is alert, not edgy.

Independent

The boy is alert in the back.

The New Yorker

Mr. Kaku is alert to ethical implications.

The New York Times - Books

Leroi is alert to this charge.

The Guardian - Books

He is alert, conscious and resting".

The New York Times - Sports

The victim is alert and mentally sharp.

The New York Times - Books

He is alert, polite and reserved.

The Guardian - Sport

Margaret Livingstone is alert as Valli.

The New York Times

He is alert, lucid and compelling.

The Guardian

Obviously, the Bureau never sleeps, is alert at all hours.

The New Yorker

Everyone is on guard, everyone is nervous, everyone is alert".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To ensure clarity, specify what the subject "is alert" to, e.g., "is alert to changes in market trends" or "is alert to potential dangers".

Common error

Avoid using "is alert" in very casual conversations. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "is sharp" or "is on the ball" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is alert" functions as a descriptive adjective phrase, indicating a state of heightened awareness or attentiveness. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used. Examples show it describing people, animals, and even abstract concepts being in a state of readiness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

53%

Science

20%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "is alert" is a grammatically sound and versatile way to describe a state of awareness and readiness. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and common usage across various contexts. It's particularly prevalent in news, scientific, and formal business settings. When using "is alert", ensure it fits the context's formality and consider specifying what the subject is alert to for added clarity. While it is acceptable to use this phrase, consider alternatives such as "is watchful", is attentive, or is vigilant depending on the specific nuance required.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is watchful

Emphasizes vigilance and careful observation, implying a proactive stance.

is vigilant

Highlights a state of heightened attention and readiness to detect potential danger or issues.

is attentive

Focuses on paying close attention to details and being responsive to needs or signals.

is aware

Indicates knowledge and understanding of the surroundings or a particular situation.

is conscious

Highlights a state of wakefulness and responsiveness to stimuli.

is sharp

Emphasizes mental acuity and quickness of perception.

is perceptive

Highlights the ability to understand or notice things quickly and accurately.

is on guard

Implies a state of readiness to defend or protect against potential threats.

is on the lookout

Focuses on actively searching for something or someone.

is quick-witted

Highlights the ability to think and respond quickly and intelligently.

FAQs

How can I use "is alert" in a sentence?

You can use "is alert" to describe someone who is attentive and aware of their surroundings. For example: "The security guard "is watchful", watching for any unusual activity in the area".

What are some alternatives to "is alert"?

Alternatives include phrases like "is vigilant", "is attentive", or "is aware", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "is alert to" or "is alert of"?

"Is alert to" is the correct phrasing when indicating what someone is paying attention to. "Is alert of" is not standard English.

What is the difference between "is alert" and "is awake"?

"Is awake" simply means not sleeping, while "is alert" implies a state of attentiveness and readiness to respond to stimuli. Someone can be awake but not necessarily is attentive.