Vocabulary Builder — Essay & Answer Writing
Vigilance
noun
/ VIJ-ih-lence /
Easy
Meaning
The quality of being alert and watchful, especially to dangers, corruption, or threats; careful and continuous attention to avoid problems
Origin / Etymology
Latin vigilantia — vigilare (to keep watch)
Synonyms
Watchfulness
Alertness
Oversight
Diligence
Antonyms
Negligence
Complacency
Inattention
Laxity
Example Sentence
"Effective anti-corruption governance requires both institutional vigilance through the CVC and community-level social audits under the MGNREGS framework."
🎯 UPSC Usage
GS2 (governance, anti-corruption) and GS3 (security). Key institutions: Central Vigilance Commission (CVC), Vigilance wings of ministries, departmental vigilance. UPSC often asks about institutional mechanisms for vigilance in governance. 'Eternal vigilance is the price of liberty' — a useful quote for essays. Distinguish from 'surveillance' which is more coercive.
Relevant Subjects