Vigilant vs. Vigilante — What's the Difference?

On the alert, as for danger or error; watchful.

A member of a self-appointed group of citizens who undertake law enforcement in their community without legal authority, typically because the legal agencies are thought to be inadequate.

Watchful, especially for danger or disorder; alert; wary

A person who is not a member of law enforcement but who pursues and punishes persons suspected of lawbreaking.

Attentive to discover and avoid danger, or to provide for safety; wakeful; watchful; circumspect; wary.

A member of a vigilance committee. 19

Carefully observant or attentive; on the lookout for possible danger;

A person who acts outside of legal authority, often violently, to punish or avenge a crime, right a perceived wrong, etc.

Member of a vigilance committee