What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
supervision
Example
The teacher provided supervision during the group project. [supervision: noun]
Example
He supervised the construction of the building from start to finish. [supervised: verb]
surveillance
Example
The security cameras provide constant surveillance of the building. [surveillance: noun]
Example
The police conducted surveillance on the suspect's house for several days. [surveilled: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Supervision is more commonly used than surveillance in everyday language, especially in professional settings. Surveillance is more commonly used in the context of security and law enforcement.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between supervision and surveillance?
Supervision is typically associated with a formal and professional tone, while surveillance can be associated with a more serious or even ominous tone due to its association with security and law enforcement.
