Surveil: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or technical contexts to describe the methodical and systematic observation of a place, person, group, or data over a period, often for the purpose of information gathering or security.

• The police decided to surveil the suspects for several weeks before making an arrest.
• Intelligence agencies have been known to surveil communications to maintain national security.

Commonly used in both professional and daily contexts, it implies ongoing observation or checking, often using specific tools or systems, to ensure that everything is functioning correctly or to detect any changes.

• The health worker needed to monitor the patient's vital signs continuously.
• We need to monitor the project's progress closely to meet the deadline.

A very general term used in casual and formal contexts, it implies looking at something or someone attentively over a period, often for enjoyment, interest, or to guard.

• We sat on the hill to watch the sunset.
• Make sure you watch the children while they play near the pool.
• He likes to watch football on weekends.

Often used in everyday speech and scientific contexts, it usually means to carefully watch something or someone with intent to understand or discover something.

• Researchers observe animal behavior to gain insights into their habits.
• From my window, I can observe the children playing in the park.