on guard

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on guard

A security officer stands on guard at the museum entrance.

Definition
  1. Adjective:
    • Watchful and alert to danger or difficulty: Being in a state of caution and readiness to respond to potential threats or problems.
    • Actively defensive or protective: Maintaining a defensive posture or mindset to prevent harm or deception.
Usage
  • The adjective "on guard" describes a state of heightened awareness. It is typically used after a linking verb like "be," "remain," or "stay." It can be followed by the preposition "against" to specify the threat.
  • Example: "Be on guard against pickpockets in crowded areas."
  • Example: "The soldiers were on guard throughout the night."
Examples
  • Adjective:
    • The security team is constantly on guard for any suspicious activity.
    • After the recent scams, investors are more on guard than ever.
    • She remained on guard, not fully trusting the stranger's offer.
Advanced Usage
  • "to be on one's guard": To be personally cautious and vigilant.
    • In unfamiliar cities, it's wise to be on your guard.
  • "to put someone on guard": To cause someone to become cautious.
    • The strange noise put the campers on guard.
Variants and Related Words
  • Guard (noun/v): The act or duty of protecting; to protect.
    • The security guard was on duty. (This is a related but distinct noun usage.)
  • Guarded (adj): Cautious and restrained, often in speech or manner.
    • He gave a guarded answer to the reporter's question.
Synonyms
  • Vigilant: Keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.
  • Alert: Quick to notice any unusual and potentially dangerous or difficult circumstances.
  • Watchful: Observing someone or something closely; alert and vigilant.
  • Wary: Feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.
Related Phrases
  • On the alert: In a state of readiness; vigilant.
    • The police were on the alert for the escaped prisoner.
  • On watch: Officially assigned to a duty of guarding or observing.
    • The sailor was on watch from midnight until 4 a.m.
Related Idioms
  • Let one's guard down: To become less vigilant or cautious.
    • After a few peaceful days, she let her guard down.
  • Off guard: Not prepared to face a challenge or surprise; unprepared.
    • The tricky question caught him off guard.
on guard

A security officer stands on guard at the museum entrance.

Adjective
  1. vigilant
    • on guard against con artists
    • must remain on your guard in such a situation

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