vigilant

/ˈvɪdʒɪlənt/
adjectiveIntermediate
general

Being very careful and watchful to avoid danger or mistakes.

Parents must be vigilant about their children's online activities.

Parents need to be very careful and watchful about what their children do online.

💡

Often used in contexts where caution is necessary, such as security, health, or parenting.

Collocations

remain vigilantto stay alert and watchfulbe vigilant aboutto be careful and watchful regarding something

Synonyms

Antonyms

💡Pro Tip

Common Usage

Use 'vigilant' when describing someone who is actively paying attention to avoid problems.

Gold Rule

Formal Context

'Vigilant' is more formal than 'watchful' or 'alert' and is often used in official or serious situations.

📖Word Origin

From Latin 'vigilantem', meaning 'watchful', from 'vigil' (watchful).

📝Usage Notes

Often used in formal or serious contexts where caution is important.

Word Breakdown

vigil
watchful
root
+
-ant
performing the action
suffix
English Dictionary