on guard

phrase

Definition of on guardnext
as in alert
paying close attention usually for the purpose of anticipating approaching danger or opportunity Since it was hunting season, we wore brightly colored vests and remained on guard while hiking.

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of Synonyms for on guard
on the ball
Phrase
  • When Lammens stopped a shot in the 88th minute by Pau Cubarsi, Merino got to the ball fast enough to get his boot on the ball to create the go-ahead goal.
    — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 10 July 2026
  • Late in the game, Portugal were spared extra time after Croatia's second goal was ruled out for an offside detected by the faintest touch on the ball.
    — Jibin Joseph, PC Magazine, 6 July 2026
Definition of on the ball
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Browse Nearby Words

ongoing
on guard
on hand
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Cite this Entry

“On guard.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/on%20guard. Accessed 15 Jul. 2026.

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