Definition

1. Verb phrase:
   • To stand guard: To take a position and remain watchful, typically as a sentry or security personnel, to protect a place or person and prevent unauthorized entry or danger.
   • To be on sentry duty: To perform the specific task of guarding a post, often in a military or formal security context.

Usage Examples

• Verb phrase:
  • Người lính đứng gác ở cổng doanh trại. (The soldier is standing guard at the barracks gate.)
  • Cả đêm anh ấy phải đứng gác. (He had to stand guard all night.)
  • Họ thay phiên nhau đứng gác. (They take turns being on sentry duty.)

Advanced Usage

• The phrase implies a stationary, vigilant posture. It is often used for official or organized protection details rather than casual watching.

Variants and Related Words

• Canh gác (v): to guard, to keep watch. A close synonym often used interchangeably.

  • Máy quay an ninh tự động canh gác. (Security cameras automatically keep watch.)

• Bảo vệ (v/n): to protect; a guard/protector. A broader term for providing security.

  • Anh bảo vệ đứng ở lối vào. (The security guard is standing at the entrance.)

Synonyms

• To guard: To watch over and protect.
• To keep watch: To stay awake and alert to danger.
• To be on duty: To be engaged in one's assigned task, especially for security.

Related Idioms

• Đứng gác cửa thiên đàng: A humorous or euphemistic idiom meaning "to have passed away" (lit. to stand guard at heaven's gate).
  • Ông cụ ấy giờ chắc đang đứng gác cửa thiên đàng rồi. (That old man is probably standing guard at heaven's gate now.)