state of alert

USAGE SUMMARY

"state of alert" is a correct and valid phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe a heightened awareness or readiness, particularly in relation to security or military operations. For example, "The border patrol has been on a state of alert for days due to increased activity in the region."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We are all in state of alert.

The Guardian

"We're in the highest state of alert," Mr. Giuliani said.

The New York Times

Remain on "yellow -- significant risk" state of alert.

The New York Times

Increase to "orange -- high risk" state of alert.

The New York Times

Paris is put on the highest state of alert.

The Guardian

Right now we're on a heightened state of alert.

The New York Times

They were in a state of alert for a week.

The Guardian

On August 24th he declared a state of alert, giving them a free rein to operate.

The Economist

Usl said, "I apologize, I'm in such a high state of alert".

The New Yorker

According to the Ministry of the Interior, though, Kuwait is on its highest state of alert.

The New York Times

"We are all in a high state of alert and this is inevitable," he said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing different levels of alert, specify the degree (e.g., 'high state of alert', 'heightened state of alert').

Common error

Avoid using "state of alert" interchangeably with terms like "state of emergency" or "martial law". "State of alert" implies heightened vigilance, while the others denote more drastic measures and legal implications.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "state of alert" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically describes a condition or situation characterized by heightened awareness and readiness in anticipation of potential threats or emergencies. Ludwig AI shows its use in various contexts to indicate a prepared stance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Science

1%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "state of alert" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a condition of heightened readiness and awareness, particularly in response to potential threats or emergencies. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, it serves to inform and sometimes warn about increased vigilance. While alternatives like "heightened vigilance" and "increased readiness" exist, "state of alert" maintains a unique communicative power when conveying a sense of urgency or preparedness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on high alert

Indicates a condition where there's a significant risk and everyone is ready to respond.

heightened vigilance

Emphasizes increased watchfulness and attentiveness to potential dangers.

increased readiness

Focuses on the preparation and availability to respond to a potential threat or emergency.

elevated preparedness

Highlights a more formal and structured approach to getting ready for possible events.

at the ready

Suggests that people are prepared for imminent action or deployment.

heightened security

Implies increased measures and protocols to protect against threats.

vigilant stance

Emphasizes a proactive and alert posture in anticipation of potential issues.

in a watchful mode

Suggests a continuous and careful observation of the surroundings.

crisis mode

Implies a reactive posture in order to manage the negative effects

under heightened surveillance

Highlights the increased monitoring of an area or group to prevent or detect potential threats.

FAQs

How is "state of alert" used in a sentence?

You can use "state of alert" to describe situations where heightened vigilance and preparedness are necessary. For example, "The city was placed on a "high alert" after the terrorist threat".

What phrases can I use instead of "state of alert"?

Alternatives include "heightened vigilance", "increased readiness", or "elevated preparedness", depending on the specific context.

What's the difference between "state of alert" and "state of emergency"?

"State of alert" indicates increased vigilance and preparedness, while "state of emergency" signifies a more severe situation granting special powers to the government.

Is it correct to say "in a state of alert" or "on a state of alert"?

Both are technically correct, but "on a state of alert" is more common when referring to an organization or location being in a heightened state of readiness. For example, "The military is "on high alert"".