on one's guard

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Thân thiện
Definition

Adjective phrase - Alert, watchful, and cautious: Being in a state of heightened awareness to avoid danger, deception, or trouble. It describes a person who is carefully observing their surroundings and situation to prevent a negative outcome.

Usage

The phrase "on one's guard" is used to describe a state of defensive alertness. It is typically used after a linking verb like "be," "remain," or "stay." The possessive "one's" changes to match the subject (e.g., on my guard, on his guard, on their guard).

Examples
  • Adjective phrase:
    • After the recent thefts, the entire neighborhood is on its guard.
    • You should be on your guard when dealing with aggressive sales tactics.
    • The diplomat remained on her guard throughout the tense negotiations.
Advanced Usage
  • "to put someone on their guard": To cause someone to become cautious or alert.
    • The ominous silence put the soldiers on their guard.
  • "to be constantly on one's guard": To be perpetually vigilant.
    • Living in a conflict zone, they were constantly on their guard.
Variants and Related Words
  • On guard: A more general form, often used without the possessive. It can function similarly or refer specifically to being at a post of duty.
    • The sentry was on guard at the gate.
  • Off (one's) guard: The opposite state; not alert or prepared.
    • The question caught him off his guard.
Synonyms
  • Vigilant: Watchful, especially for danger.
  • Wary: Feeling or showing caution.
  • Alert: Quick to notice and respond to potential danger.
  • Cautious: Careful to avoid potential problems or dangers.
Related Idioms
  • "Keep your guard up": Maintain a state of caution and readiness. This is a direct imperative related to the phrase.
    • Even after the agreement, he advised his team to keep their guard up.
Adjective
  1. vigilant
    • on guard against con artists
    • must remain on your guard in such a situation

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