oversee

oversee is a verb meaning to supervise, manage, or make sure that work, a process, or people are doing what they should.

It is usually followed by a noun or an -ing verb form: “oversee a project” or “oversee hiring.” The past tense is oversaw, and the past participle is overseen.

Synonyms: supervise, manage, monitor, direct, administer.

Register and background: It is a standard, often professional word, common in workplaces, government, construction, education, and management. It comes from over + see, originally conveying the idea of watching over something.

1. The manager will oversee the renovation project.
   The manager will supervise the renovation project.
2. She oversees a team of twelve employees.
   She supervises a team of twelve employees.
3. The teacher oversees the students during the exam.
   The teacher supervises the students during the exam.
4. Our director oversaw the company’s expansion last year.
   Our director supervised the company’s expansion last year.
5. A safety officer must oversee the equipment inspection.
   A safety officer must supervise the equipment inspection.