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

Will the Republicans in Congress demand that it be treated as a co-equal branch of government, or will they surrender that constitutionally mandated responsibility and oversight to Trump?

From Salon

It was submitted to the court on Friday morning, and if approved, will require court oversight of its implementation for the next two years.

From Los Angeles Times

Instead, Viera Rosa has found himself squarely in the crosshairs of the oversight board he once sat on.

From Los Angeles Times

But, understandably, the review won’t have oversight of the independent sector.

From BBC

Food and Drug Administration rule that most Americans know little about, yet gives corporations the license to add potentially harmful ingredients to foods without regulatory oversight or public notice.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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