WordValesupervise
to observe and direct work
In more detail
to watch over and direct the work of a person or group to make sure they do their job correctly
Examples
- The manager supervises ten employees in the department.
How to use supervise
Supervise means to watch over and ensure proper performance of work or tasks, typically in a workplace or institutional setting. It carries a sense of responsibility and active oversight, distinguishing it from merely observing. It can imply either supportive guidance or critical monitoring, depending on context.
Common phrases
- supervise staff
- supervise a project
- supervise the work
- supervise closely
- supervise construction
Synonyms
oversee · manage · monitor · direct · administer
Opposites
neglect · ignore
Word family
supervision (noun) · supervisor (noun) · supervisory (adjective)
A common mistake
Learners sometimes use supervise intransitively (e.g., 'she supervises in the hospital') when it typically requires a direct object (e.g., 'she supervises nurses in the hospital').
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