What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
alertness
Example
The soldier's alertness saved his unit from an ambush. [alertness: noun]
Example
She drank coffee to maintain her alertness during the night shift. [alertness: noun]
vigilance
Example
The security guard maintained his vigilance throughout the night. [vigilance: noun]
Example
The hiker's vigilance helped her avoid getting lost in the wilderness. [vigilance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Alertness is more commonly used than vigilance in everyday language. Alertness is a more versatile word that can be used in a variety of contexts, while vigilance is more specific to situations involving security and safety.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between alertness and vigilance?
Both alertness and vigilance can be used in formal and informal contexts, but vigilance is often associated with a more serious and formal tone due to its association with security and safety.
