vigilance[noun]Synonyms: watchfulness, alertness, attentiveness, carefulness, caution, circumspection, observance
English Thesaurus: care, caution, prudence, vigilance, regard for something, ... [TahlilGaran] English Synonym Dictionary ▲
vig‧i‧lance /ˈvɪdʒələns, ˈvɪdʒɪləns/
noun [uncountable] careful attention that you give to what is happening, so that you will notice any danger or illegal activity:
the need for increased police vigilance [TahlilGaran] Dictionary of Contemporary English ▲
care if you do something with care, you are careful to avoid damage, mistakes etc:
She put the needle in with great care. Everyone should take care in the sun.caution care to avoid danger or risks, or care about trusting information that might not be true:
Her evidence should be treated with caution. There was a certain lack of caution among investors.prudence a sensible and careful attitude that makes you avoid unnecessary risks - a rather formal use:
Banks should show more prudence in lending money.vigilance careful attention to what is happening, so that you will notice any danger or illegal activity:
Governments from across the world have called for greater vigilance against Internet-based crime. There is a need for constant vigilance to protect vulnerable people.regard for something careful attention and consideration shown to something, to avoid danger or risks - used especially when someone fails to do this:
The court heard that the company had shown no regard for the safety of its employees. These men are cold-blooded killers and have little regard for human life.tact care not to say anything that might offend or upset someone:
He handled the matter with a great deal of tact.discretion care to deal with situations in a way that does not embarrass, upset or offend people, especially by not telling any of their secrets:
Any confidential information was treated with discretion.take care of somebody (
also look after somebody especially British English) to make sure a child or an old or sick person is safe and has the things they need:
I have to look after my little brother. Taking care of a baby is hard work. She is taking care of her grandmother while her grandfather is in hospital.care for somebody to take care of someone.
Care for somebody is less common and more formal than
take care of/look after somebody:
He was cared for by a team of nurses. Caring for an elderly relative can be very rewarding.nurse to look after someone who is ill:
He nursed his wife through a long illness. The monks nursed him back to health (=looked after him until he was well again).babysit to look after children in the evening while their parents go out somewhere:
I’ll ask Jane to babysit on Wednesday night. He used to babysit for Mary when she worked nights.mind British English to look after a child while their parents are not there, especially for a short time:
Will you mind the baby while I go to the shop? [TahlilGaran] English Thesaurus ▲