vigilance is key

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "vigilance is key" is correct and usable in written English. You can use it in contexts where emphasizing the importance of being alert or watchful is necessary. For example, "In cybersecurity, vigilance is key to preventing breaches." Alternative expressions include "alertness is crucial" and "watchfulness is essential."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Vigilance is key to making yourself a harder target for identity thieves.

Huffington Post

Expert vigilance is key to successful investment, as it is critical to protecting the investor's profit.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Constant monitoring and vigilance are key.

Forbes

Vigilance is the key, and you can't be vigilant if you're romanticizing the past.

HuffPost

INTELLIGENCE: RESEARCH BRIEF: Vigilance is the key to avoiding potential organizational nightmares.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Eternal vigilance is one key to a successful lobbying effort, and few are better at it than the tobacco industry.

The New York Times

Vigilance is the key word here.

Forbes

So for now at least, it seems vigilance is the key to avoiding lamp-posts and unexpected manholes.

BBC

Theories of anxiety [1] [5], [7] [9], [32] and worry [25], [42] suggest that vigilance is a key factor in anxiety pathology, consistent with evidence across a range of physiological indicators [12], [17], [26], [29], [43] [44].

Plosone

"Vigilance is the key word here, because there are so many chemicals out there," says Burger.

Environmental Health Perspectives

Vigilance is the key to keeping plant diseases at bay in a glasshouse.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing security measures or preventative actions, use "vigilance is key" to underscore the necessity of constant awareness and watchfulness.

Common error

Avoid using "vigilance is key" as a generic filler. Ensure it directly relates to the subject matter and provides actionable insight, instead of sounding like a platitude.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "vigilance is key" functions as a subject complement. It identifies and emphasizes a crucial attribute or requirement for success or prevention of negative outcomes. Ludwig AI indicates its acceptability and diverse application.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vigilance is key" is a phrase used to emphasize the importance of watchfulness and attentiveness. Ludwig AI identifies it as a grammatically correct expression. While its frequency is rare, it is present in news, academic, and scientific contexts. When writing, ensure it provides actionable insight. Alternatives include "alertness is crucial" or "watchfulness is essential" depending on the specific nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

alertness is crucial

Replaces "vigilance" with "alertness" and "key" with "crucial", maintaining a similar level of emphasis.

watchfulness is essential

Substitutes "vigilance" with "watchfulness" and "key" with "essential", conveying a slightly more formal tone.

staying alert is paramount

Rephrases the entire sentence structure to emphasize the importance of staying alert.

remaining watchful is vital

Similar to the previous alternative, but with a slightly different choice of words.

attentiveness is fundamental

Highlights the role of attentiveness as a basic requirement.

caution is paramount

Shifts the focus slightly to caution, implying a need for careful consideration and awareness.

preparedness is essential

Emphasizes the importance of being ready for potential issues.

awareness is critical

Focuses on the need for understanding and recognizing potential threats.

diligence is paramount

Highlights the importance of consistent and careful effort.

keen observation is vital

Emphasizes the importance of noticing and paying attention to details.

FAQs

What does "vigilance is key" mean?

The phrase "vigilance is key" means that being watchful, alert, and attentive is essential to achieve a desired outcome or prevent negative consequences. It highlights the importance of constant awareness and proactive monitoring.

How can I use "vigilance is key" in a sentence?

You can use "vigilance is key" when emphasizing the necessity of being alert and observant. For example, "In cybersecurity, "vigilance is key" to preventing breaches" or "When managing plant disease in a glasshouse, "vigilance is key"".

What are some alternatives to "vigilance is key"?

Some alternatives to "vigilance is key" include "alertness is crucial", "watchfulness is essential", or "staying alert is paramount". The best choice depends on the specific context and desired tone.

Is it more appropriate to say "vigilance is key" or "vigilance is crucial"?

Both "vigilance is key" and "vigilance is crucial" are grammatically correct and convey a similar meaning. "Key" suggests fundamental importance, while "crucial" implies decisive significance. The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.