on guard
The phrase "on guard" is used across various contexts, including idiomatic expressions, fencing, and aviation, to denote a state of readiness and vigilance.
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Definition
B2General
(idiomatic)Being alert and ready to respond to potential danger or threats.
Example
- You need to be on guard when walking alone at night.
C1Fencing
(sports)The starting position in a fencing bout, where one is prepared to defend or attack.
Example
- The fencers stood on guard, waiting for the referee's signal.
C2Aviation
(technical)Transmitting on the aircraft emergency frequency 121.5 MHz.
Example
- The pilot switched to on guard to report the emergency.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "on guard":
en gardemain guardstand sentinelnew guardoff guardwatch and wardkeep vigilguard of honourcorps de gardeold guardadvance guardguard bandon the defensiveon watchbe on the lookoutmiddle guardchanging of the guardkeep a lookoutborder guardwatch one's backstand by