What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
oversight
Example
The manager has oversight over the entire project. [oversight: noun]
Example
I overlooked the mistake in the report. [overlooked: past tense verb]
surveillance
Example
The police have increased surveillance in the area due to recent crime activity. [surveillance: noun]
Example
The company installed cameras to conduct surveillance on the employees. [surveillance: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Oversight is more commonly used than surveillance in everyday language, especially in professional or official contexts. Surveillance is more commonly used in the context of security or safety, such as in law enforcement or national security.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between oversight and surveillance?
Both oversight and surveillance can be used in formal or professional contexts, but oversight is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of contexts, including business, finance, and government.
