Spanish Conversation · Level 17
89 words
Spanish word
vigilancia
Pronunciation
IPA/bixiˈlanθja/
Meaning
- feminine nounsurveillance
Example
La policía aumentó la vigilancia en el barrio.
The police increased surveillance in the neighborhood.
More examples
El vecino se quejó de la vigilancia constante.
The neighbor complained about the constant surveillance.
Core concept
Continuous watch of people, places, or activities to prevent or detect danger or crime.
Common phrases
cámaras de vigilancia
surveillance cameras
vigilancia constante
constant surveillance
vigilancia nocturna
nighttime surveillance
Similar words
guardia: Rotating on-duty guard service where staff stand watch and secure a site or individuals.
custodia: Responsible custody involving protection, supervision, and control of a person or valuable item.
observación: Deliberate observation focused on noticing details and recording changes or facts.
Definition in Spanish
Acción o efecto de vigilar personas, lugares o actividades para prevenir o detectar peligros o delitos.
Word origin
Spanish vigilancia comes from Latin vigilantia, from the verb vigilare 'to be awake and watch', with the suffix -antia forming a noun for the action or state of watching.
Usage tips
- The word is used mainly in formal or official contexts (police, CCTV, border control), while everyday 'be alert' is normally expressed with estar atento.