Definition of vigilantnext

Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective vigilant contrast with its synonyms?

Some common synonyms of vigilant are alert, watchful, and wide-awake. While all these words mean "being on the lookout especially for danger or opportunity," vigilant suggests intense, unremitting, wary watchfulness.

eternally vigilant in the safeguarding of democracy

Where would alert be a reasonable alternative to vigilant?

The words alert and vigilant can be used in similar contexts, but alert stresses readiness or promptness in meeting danger or in seizing opportunity.

alert traders anticipated the stock market's slide

When is watchful a more appropriate choice than vigilant?

The meanings of watchful and vigilant largely overlap; however, watchful is the least explicit term.

the watchful eye of the department supervisor

When is it sensible to use wide-awake instead of vigilant?

Although the words wide-awake and vigilant have much in common, wide-awake applies to watchfulness for opportunities and developments more often than dangers.

wide-awake companies latched onto the new technology

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of vigilant Police advised residents to be vigilant and said that vehicles should always be locked, even in the driveway. Rick Hurd, Mercury News, 2 July 2026 With an active legal fight over the quiet period's scope still playing out in the courts, eligible voters should be vigilant about checking their registration status before their states' deadlines, says Edobor. Hansi Lo Wang, NPR, 1 July 2026 Still, analysts are vigilant about potential risks, especially on AI bubble concerns. John Towfighi, CNN Money, 1 July 2026 Parents urged to stay vigilant As the heat index rises into the triple digits, doctors are encouraging parents to stay vigilant. Ashley Grams, CBS News, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for vigilant
Recent Examples of Synonyms for vigilant
Adjective
  • And many key aspects of society rely on the data centers that have been built over the decades, serving websites, handling online purchases and delivering emails, text messages and alert notices.
    Lauren Mullenbach, The Conversation, 1 July 2026
  • During an air quality alert day, state environmental authorities recommend to avoid strenuous outdoor activities as much as possible, especially people who have existing health conditions such as heart disease or asthma.
    Paula Wethington, CBS News, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • For example, don’t lay awake at night thinking about tomorrow's tasks.
    Michel Koopman, Forbes.com, 30 June 2026
  • Maybe staying awake to novel experiences is the key to vitality.
    Judy Berman, Time, 29 June 2026
Adjective
  • Wildlife enthusiasts find a different rhythm through AmaWaterways’ Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruises, one that trades itinerary sprinting for long, watchful hours on the water.
    Condé Nast Traveler, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 June 2026
  • Cruz is alluring and watchful, while Norton turns out to be the film’s secret weapon.
    Mark Olsen, Los Angeles Times, 25 June 2026
Adjective
  • Determination and careful calculations — hold on, carry the 2 — are a must.
    Randy McMullen, Mercury News, 2 July 2026
  • Graduate students face lower federal limits and the loss of Grad PLUS, requiring careful financial planning.
    Scott White, Forbes.com, 2 July 2026
Adjective
  • Buckingham Palace has, however, been aware of that judgment since last Thursday.
    Simon Perry, PEOPLE, 6 July 2026
  • City officials were made aware of the potential dangers the fireworks were posing for the departing and arriving flights.
    Diego Mendoza, CNN Money, 5 July 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Vigilant.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/vigilant. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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