upon one's guard

Học thuật
Thân thiện
Definition
  1. Adjective Phrase:
    • Vigilant, cautious, and prepared for danger or difficulty: The phrase describes a state of being watchful and alert to potential threats, problems, or deception. It implies a defensive or careful stance.
Usage
  • The phrase functions as a predicate adjective, typically following a linking verb like "be," "remain," or "keep."
  • It is often used with the preposition "against" to specify the source of the potential threat.
  • It describes a temporary state of heightened awareness prompted by a specific situation, rather than a permanent personality trait.
Examples
  • Adjective Phrase:
    • After the recent security breach, all employees must be upon their guard.
    • She advised her friend to remain upon her guard against misleading advertisements.
    • The warning put the entire neighborhood upon its guard.
Advanced Usage
  • "to be upon one's guard": To be in a state of alertness.
    • A good detective is always upon his guard.
  • "to put/set someone upon their guard": To warn someone, causing them to become cautious.
    • The strange noise put me upon my guard.
  • "to keep upon one's guard": To maintain a state of caution.
    • When traveling alone, it's wise to keep upon your guard.
Variants and Related Words
  • On one's guard: This is a more common modern variant with identical meaning and usage.
    • Be on your guard for pickpockets in the crowd.
  • Guard (n/v): The core word meaning to watch over, protect, or defend.
  • Guarded (adj): Cautious and having reservations, often in speech or demeanor.
    • He gave a guarded response to the question.
Synonyms
  • Alert: Quick to notice and respond to potential danger.
  • Watchful: Carefully observing everything around.
  • Vigilant: Keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties.
  • Wary: Feeling or showing caution about possible dangers or problems.
Related Phrases
  • On the alert: Ready and watchful for something.
  • On the lookout: Actively searching or watching for something.
  • Keeping one's eyes peeled: Being very watchful and observant.
Adjective
  1. vigilant
    • on guard against con artists
    • must remain on your guard in such a situation

Từ đồng nghĩa

Từ tương tự