oversight

[oh-ver-sahyt]

noun

1. an omission or error due to carelessness.

   My bank statement is full of oversights.

   Synonyms: slip, blunder, mistake

2. unintentional failure to notice or consider; lack of proper attention.

   Owing to my oversight, the letter was sent unsigned.

   Synonyms: inattention, neglect, lapse, slip, blunder, mistake

3. supervision; watchful care.

   a person responsible for the oversight of the organization.

   Synonyms: surveillance, control, direction, management

oversight

/ ˈəʊvəˌsaɪt /

noun

1. an omission or mistake, esp one made through failure to notice something

2. supervision

Word History and Origins

Origin of oversight¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English; over- + sight

Example Sentences

Recently, however, company officials have promoted a new restart plan that could avoid California oversight.

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Last year, the company successfully lobbied to be exempted from holding a county “amusement and transportation system” permit, arguing instead for an oversight plan that removed multiple layers of inspection.

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An ongoing staffing crisis previously led a state oversight body to deem two of L.A.

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California does not have a statewide licensing program, instead relying on local jurisdictions for oversight.

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The county sheriff argued that a collaboration would allow more leeway for local officials to inject “Utah County values” into enforcement and public safety rather than allowing complete federal oversight.

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Related Words

• control 
• handling 
• inspection 
• maintenance 
• management 
• surveillance