be on guard

VERB

look out

Synonyms

WEAK

be alert be careful beware check out have a care heads up hearken keep an eye out keep tabs listen mind notice pay attention peg pick up on scope shotgun size up spot spy watch out

Antonyms

WEAK

disregard ignore neglect

VERB

mind

Synonyms

STRONGEST

tend

STRONG

trouble watch

WEAK

be cautious be concerned be solicitous be wary have a care mind one's p's and q's take care toe the line watch one's step watch out

Antonyms

WEAK

disregard forget ignore neglect

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Instead, you should be on guard against the silent, ruthless assassin of wealth: inflation.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

Flynn warned that it’s safer “to be on guard for any outcome over the weekend” — although risk could go either way.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 6, 2026

The sense of fear is palpable in parts of northern Japan, where some locals have fastened bells to their bags hoping the noise will keep bears away, while signs warn people to be on guard.

From Barron's • Nov. 8, 2025

It’s something to which we are all susceptible, and against which we all must be on guard.

From Slate • May 21, 2025

This is one of those infamies a prince should be on guard against, as will be discussed below.

From "The Prince" by Niccolò Machiavelli

be on guard

Example Sentences

Related Words