vigilance
VIJ-uh-lunss
/ˈvɪdʒ.ɪ.ləns/
The state or quality of keeping careful watch for possible danger, errors, or difficulties.
Implies continuous, alert readiness over an extended period, usually driven by potential risk.
The story behind the word. Vigilance derives from the Latin 'vigilantia', stemming from 'vigil' (awake or watchful). The ancient Romans used the term for nighttime sentinels guarding city walls. The root also gave us 'invigilator' (an exam supervisor) and 'vigilante'.
Word relationships
- watchfulness: Watchfulness is broader and less formal, whereas vigilance emphasizes active defense against threats.
- alertness: Alertness refers to physical/mental readiness, while vigilance includes long-term sustained monitoring.
- negligence: Negligence implies careless failure to watch or act.
- inattention: Inattention is a lapse of focus rather than active dereliction.
Commonly confused with
- vigour: Vigour means physical energy or strength, while vigilance means watchful alertness.
Word family
- vigilant (adjective): Keeping careful watch for danger.
- vigilantly (adverb): In a watchful, alert manner.
- vigil (noun): A period of keeping awake during sleep hours to keep watch or pray.
Collocations
- constant vigilance
- eternal vigilance
- maintain vigilance
- heightened vigilance
Idioms & expressions
- eternal vigilance is the price of liberty
Example sentences
- "Air traffic controllers must maintain constant vigilance throughout their shifts to prevent collisions." Aviation Safety
- "Constant vigilance! demanded the old auror, pacing before his quiet classroom." Literature
Memory hook
Think of a VIGILant guard keeping watch while others sleep. Vigilant guards never sleep.
When not to use
Do not use for casual or relaxed watching, such as enjoying a movie.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'eternal vigilance is the price of liberty' was famously misattributed to Thomas Jefferson but actually originated with Irish orator John Philpot Curran in 1790.
Related words
Explore more words
surveillance, diligent, circumspect, precaution, observation, prudent
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