vigilant

USAGE SUMMARY

The word "vigilant" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is alert and watchful, especially in guarding against danger or illegal activity. Example sentence: The police officers were vigilant as they watched the crowd of protestors.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Speaking of the use of chemical weapons in Syria, she said: "The fact that atrocities such as this continue to occur shows that we must remain vigilant to the threat of chemical and biological weapons".

The Guardian

The Vatan-e-Emrooz newspaper, which has a conspiratorial mindset, published a front-page article in April warning that the event is aimed at orchestrating a "soft overthrow" in Iran and urged the country's intelligence apparatus to be vigilant.

The Guardian - Tech

So we have got to be vigilant, we have got to have the resources there".

The Guardian

Sadly, there is no way of predicting where the song-dominating warbler will strike next, so please be vigilant.

The Guardian - Music

Clearly not enough, so we have to stay vigilant".

The Guardian

Even so, Wiggins will need to be vigilant on the tough twin climbs of Caerphilly mountain on Thursday – when the weather is again expected to deteriorate – or on the hilltop finish at Haytor on Friday.

The Guardian - Sport

Once he receives his pension he has to be vigilant to not be attacked and have his money stolen.

The Guardian

He also admitted, "I had not been vigilant enough about the development of the regime and Tunisian public opinion".

The Guardian

"We must always remain vigilant about preventing Iran from getting a nuclear weapon but there is no question that a diplomatic solution is vastly preferable to the alternatives," Reid said in a statement.

The Guardian

Meanwhile, children – and adults, of course – with peanut allergies should be vigilant about what they eat, especially in takeaways and food prepared by other people.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Michael's competitors were disreputable, he said, and he needed to be vigilant with potential clients.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "vigilant", consider the specific context and choose synonyms that precisely convey the desired nuance of alertness or watchfulness. Overusing "vigilant" can make your writing sound repetitive.

Common error

Avoid using "vigilant" in contexts that require a more active or assertive approach. "Vigilant" implies watchfulness, not necessarily direct intervention. For example, being "vigilant" about exercising doesn't make sense, instead say, 'I am committed to exercising'.

Linguistic Context

The adjective "vigilant" primarily functions as a modifier, describing a noun by attributing to it the quality of being watchful and alert. This is confirmed by Ludwig AI as a correct grammatical form. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing individuals, groups, or systems that are actively monitoring for potential threats or problems.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "vigilant" is a versatile adjective used to describe a state of watchfulness and alertness, especially in anticipating potential dangers or problems. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently employed across various contexts, including news, business, and science. To avoid repetitive writing, consider using synonyms such as "watchful", "alert", or "wary", while keeping in mind their slightly different connotations. Remember that "vigilant" implies watchfulness, not necessarily intervention.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

watchful

Emphasizes the act of observing closely and attentively.

alert

Highlights a state of readiness and quick responsiveness.

wary

Suggests caution and suspicion in anticipation of potential danger.

attentive

Focuses on paying close attention to detail and being observant.

observant

Stresses the ability to notice and remember significant details.

on guard

Indicates a state of readiness to defend against potential threats.

on the lookout

Highlights the active search for something or someone.

careful

Implies prudence and taking precautions to avoid mistakes or danger.

circumspect

Suggests a deliberate and cautious approach, especially in unfamiliar situations.

heedful

Implies paying attention and taking notice of warnings or advice.

FAQs

How can I use "vigilant" in a sentence?

You can use "vigilant" to describe someone who is alert and watchful, especially to avoid danger or problems. For example: "Citizens must remain "vigilant" against misinformation."

What are some alternatives to "vigilant"?

Alternatives to "vigilant" include "watchful", "alert", and "wary". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey.

When is it appropriate to use "vigilant"?

"Vigilant" is appropriate when emphasizing the need for careful observation and alertness to potential threats or problems. It suggests a proactive approach to preventing negative outcomes.

What's the difference between "vigilant" and "careful"?

While both words imply caution, "vigilant" emphasizes watchfulness and alertness to potential dangers, while "careful" focuses on avoiding mistakes through attention to detail. You're "careful" when handling fragile objects, but "vigilant" against scams.