Synonyms for

Surveillance

Verb / sɜ:ˈveɪlʌns / Another word for surveillance — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

Surveillance means watching or monitoring someone or something, especially for a long period of time.

Synonyms & similar words

observation monitoring watching supervision oversight security spying espionage reconnaissance shadowing tail trailing stalking investigation inquiry examination survey

Synonyms by register

Formal

observation monitoring scrutiny oversight

Informal

watching checking keeping an eye on spying

Literary

vigil watchfulness

Antonyms

ignorance neglect unawareness inattention blindness disregard

Common collocations

  • close surveillance
  • constant surveillance
  • public surveillance
  • electronic surveillance
  • under surveillance
  • surveillance camera
  • surveillance state
  • surveillance technology

Word family

noun surveillance
verb surveil
adjective surveillant

Usage note

Surveillance often implies a systematic and often covert observation for the purpose of gathering information or preventing wrongdoing. It can carry negative connotations of intrusion or control.

Example sentences

  1. The security guard is keeping surveillance on the entrance.
  2. The police used surveillance cameras to catch the thief.
  3. The government has been accused of conducting mass surveillance on its citizens.
  4. The companys surveillance system captured the robbers images.
  5. The detective has been doing surveillance on the suspect for weeks.

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