On guard Meaning in English
expression
ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈɡɑɹd
AHN-GARD
ˈɒn/ /ɡˈɑːd
ON-GAHD
Definition
Being alert and ready to protect yourself or respond to danger or problems; paying close attention to possible threats.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both everyday and formal contexts, especially regarding safety and security. Often used after 'be' or 'stay' (e.g., 'stay on guard'). Also a term in fencing, but in general English mostly means 'be alert.' Not slang, and less intense than 'paranoid.'
Spanish: en guardia - alertaPortuguese (BR): em guarda - alertaPortuguese (PT): em guarda - alertaChinese (Simplified): 保持警惕 - 警戒Chinese (Traditional): 保持警惕 - 警戒Hindi: सावधान - चौकसArabic: في حالة تأهب - على حذرBengali: সতর্ক - পাহারায়Russian: настороже - на чекуJapanese: 警戒してVietnamese: cảnh giác - đề phòngKorean: 경계하는 - 조심하는Turkish: tetikte - gardındaUrdu: چوکنا - ہوشیارIndonesian: waspada - siaga
Example Sentences
The security guard is always on guard at night.
basic
We must remain on guard for any changes in the weather.
basic
The dog stays on guard while its owner sleeps.
basic
Ever since the break-in, I've been on guard around strangers.
natural
You always have to be on guard for scams online.
natural
He kept his emotions on guard and didn’t let anyone get too close.
natural