vigilance
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vigilance
The state of being attentive and observant in order to quickly recognize dangers, mistakes, or changes and be able to react to them.
Dank der Wachsamkeit eines Nachbarn konnte der Einbruch verhindert werden.
Thanks to the vigilance of a neighbor, the break-in was prevented.
'Wachsamkeit' (vigilance) belongs to a word family: it is the noun corresponding to the adjective 'wachsam' (alert/watchful). Both come from the verb 'wachen' (to watch/keep watch). This connection helps you understand the meaning.
Ein guter Wachhund zeichnet sich durch seine Wachsamkeit aus.
A good guard dog is characterized by its vigilance.
This word is often used in contexts involving safety, caution, and the avoidance of danger. It sounds somewhat more formal than 'Aufmerksamkeit' (attention).
Die Polizei bittet die Bevölkerung um erhöhte Wachsamkeit in der Innenstadt.
The police are asking the public for increased vigilance in the city center.
Common formulations include 'zur Wachsamkeit mahnen/aufrufen' (to urge/call for vigilance), 'Wachsamkeit ist geboten' (vigilance is called for), or 'jemandes Wachsamkeit danken' (to owe thanks to someone's vigilance).
Angesichts der steigenden Fallzahlen ist besondere Wachsamkeit geboten.
In view of the rising case numbers, special vigilance is called for.
attention
'Aufmerksamkeit' and 'Wachsamkeit' both have to do with being mentally focused on something and noticing things. 'Aufmerksamkeit' is more general: you concentrate on a person, a task, or a conversation. 'Wachsamkeit' fits better when you are deliberately alert because something dangerous, a mistake, or a change could happen. Learners may confuse the words because both express 'being attentive'. As a simple guide: for studying, listening, or concentration, you usually say 'Aufmerksamkeit'; for monitoring, danger, or safety, 'Wachsamkeit' is more likely.
In der Pause ist besondere Wachsamkeit nötig, damit kein Kind auf die Straße läuft.
During the break, special vigilance is needed so that no child runs into the street.
Nach dem langen Gespräch ließ deine Aufmerksamkeit im Supermarkt langsam nach.
After the long conversation, your attention slowly began to fade in the supermarket.