Patrols: meaning, definitions and examples

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patrols

[pəˈtroʊlz ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

law enforcement

A group of individuals or vehicles assigned to monitor a specific area and ensure safety and security.

Synonyms

guardianship, surveillance, vigilance.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
patrols	Used when referring to regular monitoring or inspection of an area by police or security to ensure safety. The police conducted their regular patrols around the neighborhood. Security patrols will cover all exits during the night.
guardianship	Used when referring to the legal responsibility for the care and management of someone, typically a minor or someone unable to manage their own affairs. After their parents passed away, the children were placed under their aunt’s guardianship. He was granted guardianship of his younger brother.
surveillance	Used when referring to close observation, especially of a suspected spy or criminal. The police set up surveillance to monitor the suspect's movements. The building is under 24-hour surveillance.
vigilance	Used when referring to keeping careful watch for possible danger or difficulties, often used in a broad or general sense. Vigilance is essential when working with heavy machinery. The community maintained heightened vigilance after a series of break-ins.

Examples of usage

The patrols were conducted regularly along the border to prevent illegal crossings.
Local police officers were responsible for conducting foot patrols in the neighborhood.
The neighborhood watch program organized patrols to deter criminal activity in the area.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

law enforcement

To conduct regular monitoring of a specific area to maintain safety and security.

Synonyms

monitor, protect, watch.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
patrols	Used when referring to regular journeys taken by police, military, or security personnel to ensure law, order, and safety in a specific area. Can imply physical movement. The police conduct patrols in the park every evening to ensure it's safe for visitors The soldiers are on patrol at the border
monitor	Typically used in the context of overseeing activities, processes, or conditions, often through technological or systematic methods. Implies observation without necessarily intervening. The security team monitors the CCTV footage 24/7 Teachers monitor students' progress throughout the school year
protect	Used when referring to actions taken to keep someone or something safe from harm or danger. Often implies a specific responsibility or duty. Parents protect their children from potential dangers The antivirus software protects your computer from malicious attacks
watch	Refers to observing someone or something attentively over a period of time. Can be casual or serious depending on the situation. The babysitter watches over the kids while their parents are out He likes to watch the sunset every evening

Examples of usage

The police patrols the streets at night to prevent crime.
The security team patrols the premises to ensure no unauthorized access.
The volunteers patrol the park to keep it safe for visitors.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The word comes from the French word 'patrouille,' originating in the late 15th century, used to describe a group going out to watch for trouble.
Patrols became a formal part of military activities in the 18th century, where soldiers were assigned to observe for enemy movements.

Law Enforcement

In modern law enforcement, patrols are regularly scheduled routes taken by police to enhance safety and deter crime.
Many police departments use vehicles, bikes, and foot patrols, adapting to the needs of different communities.

Military Studies

In the military, patrols serve various purposes including reconnaissance, securing areas, and gathering intelligence.
Different types of patrols exist, such as route patrols, area patrols, and guard patrols, each designed for specific operational needs.

Pop Culture

Patrol teams are popular in various movies and TV shows, often showcased as heroes maintaining peace and order in their communities.
Series like 'RoboCop' and 'Paw Patrol' illustrate different aspects of patrolling, from serious to light-hearted adventures.

Environmental Conservation

Patrols are also critical in wildlife conservation, where teams monitor protected areas to prevent poaching and safeguard habitats.
Volunteers often join patrols in national parks to help preserve the environment and educate visitors about wildlife protection.

Translations

Translations of the word "patrols" in other languages:

🇵🇹 patrulhas

🇮🇳 गश्तों

🇩🇪 Patrouillen

🇮🇩 patroli

🇺🇦 патрулі

🇵🇱 patrole

🇯🇵 パトロール

🇫🇷 patrouilles

🇪🇸 patrullas

🇹🇷 devriyeler

🇰🇷 순찰

🇸🇦 دوريات

🇨🇿 hlídky

🇸🇰 hliadky

🇨🇳 巡逻

🇸🇮 patrulje

🇮🇸 eftirlitsferðir

🇰🇿 патрульдер

🇬🇪 პატრულები

🇦🇿 patrullar

🇲🇽 patrullas

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,440, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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14437 roasting
14438 trucking
14439 misplaced
14440 patrols
14441 explorer
14442 spinach
14443 coexistence
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