đứng gác
Definition
- 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.)