vigilant

adjective

we've become more vigilant since the neighbors were robbed

Syn:

watchful, observant, attentive, alert, eagle-eyed, hawk-eyed, on the lookout, on one's toes, on the qui vive; wide awake, wakeful, unwinking, on one's guard, cautious, wary, circumspect, heedful, mindful; informal beady-eyed

Ant:

inattentive

••

vigilant, careful, cautious, circumspect, wary, watchful, alert

All of these adjectives connote being on the lookout for danger or opportunity. Watchful is the most general term, meaning closely observant (a watchful young man who noticed everything). If you're vigilant, you are watchful for a purpose (to be vigilant in the presence of one's enemies), and wary suggests being on the lookout for treachery or trickery (wary of his neighbor's motives in offering to move the fence). If you're alert, you are quick to apprehend a danger, an opportunity, or an emergency (she was much more alert after a good night's sleep), and if you're careful, you may be able to avoid danger or error altogether. Cautious and circumspect also emphasize the avoidance of danger or unpleasant situations. To be circumspect is to be watchful in all directions and with regard to all possible consequences (these journalists have to be circumspect, not criticizing anyone too harshly); to be cautious is to guard against contingencies (a cautious approach to treating illness).