on constant guard

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on constant guard" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being vigilant or watchful at all times. Example: "The security team remained on constant guard to ensure the safety of the premises."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Like Cadeem Gibbs, Anthony said the days lost their significance, instead forming into one long sequence of violence that put every inmate and CO on constant guard.

Vice

As Ashanti's co-manager, along with Linda Berk, Ms. Douglas said she was on constant guard for the effects that fame might have on her daughter.

The New York Times

Hezbollah, the militant Iranian-backed guerrilla group, is probing Israeli defenses daily, and the Israelis are on constant guard for attacks across the frontier.

The New York Times

He expects Jean to live forever because she will be taught to understand how the forces of evil work and will be on constant guard against them.

The New Yorker

Like a compulsive self-Googler, he seemed acutely aware of what was being said about him, and on constant guard against perceived acts of disloyalty, even as he sought to avoid being drawn into the discussion, ducking out early after games and hiding between his headphones and behind his laptop before batting practice.

The New Yorker

Israeli intelligence agents are on constant guard against the possibility that Jewish extremists will attempt to destroy the Muslim holy places in hopes of building a third temple, a move that some Christians support as a condition for their Messiah's second coming.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

A particular bugbear is a huge heap of rubble from the beck plonked right on the shores of Ullswater, which remains under constant guard by an Environment Agency official.

The Guardian

Senator Robert C. Byrd, the West Virginia Democrat who stands constant guard over Congressional prerogatives, chided his colleagues today for avoiding debate on serious issues in what he called an excessive effort to seem united after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.

The New York Times

She tried to leave him but he imprisoned her in a small house under constant guard.

The New York Times

His wife, Liu Xia, is under constant guard in the couple's Beijing apartment.

The New York Times

We've branded our comprehensive approach to Internet security "Constant Guard".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on constant guard" to emphasize a continuous state of alert due to a perceived ongoing threat or vulnerability. This phrase is most effective when the situation requires sustained vigilance.

Common error

Avoid using "on constant guard" in contexts where occasional monitoring is sufficient. Instead, opt for phrases like "regularly checked" or "occasionally monitored" to better reflect the actual level of vigilance required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on constant guard" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb or noun to describe a state of continuous vigilance or readiness. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct. Examples show it describing soldiers, intelligence agents, and even abstract concepts like Congressional prerogatives.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

21%

Science

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on constant guard" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that effectively conveys a state of continuous vigilance. As per Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in various contexts. It is particularly prevalent in news and media, often describing security measures and protective actions. While its register is generally neutral, it leans toward formal, making it suitable for serious and descriptive writing. When seeking alternatives, consider options like "always vigilant" or "perpetually alert" to match the intended nuance. Remember to use "on constant guard" when you wish to emphasize ongoing readiness due to a perceived persistent threat.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

always vigilant

Emphasizes continuous watchfulness without specifying external threats.

ever watchful

Highlights the perpetual nature of being observant and attentive.

perpetually alert

Focuses on the state of being ready and responsive at all times.

in a state of readiness

Highlights preparation and availability for immediate action.

maintaining vigilance

Focuses on the act of preserving a state of watchfulness.

on high alert

Suggests a heightened state of awareness due to an imminent threat.

keeping a close watch

Emphasizes careful and attentive observation.

remaining observant

Focuses on the act of noticing and paying attention.

staying attentive

Highlights the act of maintaining focus and concentration.

with unwavering vigilance

Stresses the firmness and constancy of watchfulness.

FAQs

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

You can use "on constant guard" to describe a state of continuous vigilance. For example, "The border patrol remained "on constant guard" against potential incursions."

What are some alternatives to saying "on constant guard"?

Alternatives include "always vigilant", "ever watchful", or "perpetually alert", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "on constant guard"?

Yes, the phrase "on constant guard" is grammatically correct and commonly used to describe a state of continuous alertness or watchfulness.

What's the difference between "on constant guard" and "on high alert"?

"On constant guard" suggests a continuous state of vigilance, while "on high alert" implies a heightened state of readiness due to a specific, often imminent, threat. Being "on high alert" usually indicates a temporary condition, whereas "on constant guard" may be a long-term strategy.