vigilar (spanish) - meaning, definition, translation, pronunciation

Part of Speech

The word "vigilar" is a verb.

Phonetic Transcription

The phonetic transcription in International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) is: /bi.ɣiˈlaɾ/

Translation Options into English

1. To watch
2. To monitor
3. To keep an eye on
4. To guard

Meaning and Usage

"Vigilar" means to keep watch over someone or something, to monitor or supervise. It is commonly used in various contexts, including security, law enforcement, and general observation. The frequency of use is relatively high in both oral and written Spanish, particularly in contexts related to safety, legal supervision, and military operations.

Example Sentences

1. Es importante vigilar a los niños cuando juegan en la calle.

2. It is important to watch the children when they play in the street.

3. La policía deberá vigilar el área para evitar delitos.

4. The police must monitor the area to prevent crimes.

5. Los supervisores suelen vigilar el desempeño de los empleados.

6. Supervisors usually keep an eye on the performance of the employees.

Idiomatic Expressions

The verb "vigilar" is part of several idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are some examples:

1. Vigilar de cerca
2. Meaning: To keep a close watch.

3. Example: El gerente está vigilando de cerca el progreso del proyecto.

   • The manager is keeping a close watch on the project's progress.

4. Vigilar como un halcón

5. Meaning: To watch like a hawk (indicates close and meticulous observation).

6. Example: Los padres vigilan como halcones a sus hijos en la playa.

   • Parents watch their children like hawks at the beach.

7. Vigilar las espaldas

8. Meaning: To watch one's back (to be cautious or wary).

9. Example: En el trabajo es importante vigilar las espaldas de los colegas.

   • At work, it is important to watch the backs of your colleagues.

10. Vigilar el reloj

11. Meaning: To watch the clock (to be mindful of time).
12. Example: Durante la reunión, debemos vigilar el reloj para no pasarnos de tiempo.
    • During the meeting, we must watch the clock so we don't run over time.

Etymology

"Vigilar" comes from the Latin "vigilare," which means "to be awake" or "to be vigilant." It is derived from "vigil," meaning "awake" or "alert."

Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms

1. Supervisar (to supervise)
2. Observar (to observe)
3. Controlar (to control)
4. Monitorizar (to monitor)

Antonyms

1. Ignorar (to ignore)
2. Descuidar (to neglect)
3. Desatender (to disregard)