What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tracking
Example
The package is being tracked and will arrive tomorrow. [tracked: verb]
Example
The company is tracking user behavior on their website. [tracking: gerund or present participle]
surveillance
Example
The store has surveillance cameras to prevent theft. [surveillance: noun]
Example
The government is conducting surveillance on suspected terrorists. [surveillance: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Tracking is more commonly used than surveillance in everyday language, as it has a broader range of applications and can be used in various contexts. Surveillance is more commonly associated with law enforcement or security-related contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between tracking and surveillance?
Surveillance is typically associated with a formal or official tone, while tracking can be used in both formal and informal contexts.