vigilant

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/ˈvɪdʒɪlənt/
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Carefully alert and watchful, especially for danger, trouble, or changes that need action.

Examples

  • A vigilant editor caught the mistake before publication.
  • Residents were asked to be vigilant after the storm.
  • The company stayed vigilant against online scams.
  • The goalkeeper stayed vigilant until the final whistle.
  • Doctors were vigilant for early signs of infection.

Similar words

wary
observant
alert
attentive
watchful
heedful
on guard
careful

Meanings

Usage

Vigilant is useful in safety, security, health, and careful-work contexts. It is stronger and more formal than simply careful, but still common in everyday writing.

Common mistakes

Vigilance is the noun and vigilant is the adjective. Prepositions matter: vigilant against fraud, vigilant for signs, and vigilant about safety all sound natural.

Etymology

Borrowed from Latin vigilans, the present participle of vigilare, to be awake or keep watch. The same root appears in vigil, vigilance, and vigilante.

FAQ

What does vigilant mean?

Vigilant means carefully alert and watching for danger, trouble, or important changes.

Is vigilant positive or negative?

It is usually positive or neutral. It suggests responsible attention, though it can sound serious or cautious.

What is the difference between vigilant and watchful?

Vigilant often sounds more active and serious. Watchful can sound calmer or more protective.

What preposition follows vigilant?

Common patterns are vigilant against a threat, vigilant for signs, and vigilant about safety.

What is the noun form of vigilant?

The noun is vigilance, meaning careful watchfulness or alert attention.

What is the adverb of vigilant?

The adverb is vigilantly, as in The guard watched vigilantly.

Is vigilant the same as afraid?

No. Vigilant means alert and prepared. It does not necessarily mean frightened.

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