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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
Polity Security Defence
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