WordValevigilance
careful, constant attention
In more detail
1. (noun) careful attention to notice any danger or problems
2. (noun) the act of keeping watch or staying alert
Examples
- 1. The security guard's vigilance prevented the theft.
- 2. Constant vigilance is needed to maintain food safety in restaurants.
How to use vigilance
Vigilance is a formal, somewhat serious word referring to sustained, deliberate watchfulness, often in contexts involving security, danger, or preventing problems. It emphasizes active, conscious effort rather than casual attention and is commonly used in professional, institutional, and safety-related contexts.
Common phrases
- constant vigilance
- maintain vigilance
- exercise vigilance
- heightened vigilance
- vigilance against
- vigilance is needed
Synonyms
watchfulness · alertness · attentiveness · caution · carefulness
Opposites
negligence · carelessness · inattention
Word family
vigilant (adjective) · vigilantly (adverb) · vigilante (noun - related but distinct)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes confuse vigilance with vigilante (a person taking law enforcement into their own hands), which is a different word entirely despite the similar spelling.
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