What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oversee
Example
As the project manager, it's my job to oversee the development process. [oversee: verb]
Example
The CEO oversees all company operations to ensure they align with the company's mission. [oversees: present tense]
supervise
Example
The teacher supervises the students during the exam to prevent cheating. [supervises: present tense]
Example
The foreman supervises the construction workers to ensure the building is constructed safely. [supervise: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supervise is more commonly used than oversee in everyday language. Supervise is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while oversee is less common and typically used in more formal or professional settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oversee and supervise?
While both oversee and supervise can be used in formal settings, oversee is generally considered more formal due to its association with higher-level management and decision-making.
