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
Both words refer to someone observing something attentively. Aufmerksamkeit usually directs your thoughts and senses toward a specific thing or danger, while Wachsamkeit emphasizes a constant readiness to detect possible dangers. Use „Aufmerksamkeit“ for focus and „Wachsamkeit“ for cautious observation.
Bei der Überquerung der Straße bewahrte das Kind seine Wachsamkeit gegenüber dem Verkehr.
As the child crossed the street, they remained vigilant around the traffic.
Bei der Überquerung der Straße richtete das Kind seine Aufmerksamkeit auf den Verkehr.
As the child crossed the street, they focused their attention on the traffic.
