oversight

American  

[oh-ver-sahyt] / ˈoʊ vərˌsaɪt /

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

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oversight British  

/ ˈəʊvəˌsaɪt /

noun

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

2. supervision

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Etymology

Origin of oversight

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

Example Sentences

In a unanimous opinion issued Thursday, justices from the state’s first appellate district found that an oversight body in Sonoma County is legally authorized to subpoena the county sheriff’s office while probing whistleblower inquiries.

From Los Angeles Times

NASA’s inspector general repeatedly has faulted supplier performance and how officials conducted oversight.

From The Wall Street Journal

Iran is insisting on permanent oversight including a system of tolls.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Either way, Congress will thereby retain its authority over the nation's property and its oversight over the Government's spending."

From Barron's

Commerce officials have requested more oversight over the program and its partnership with AT&T, citing internal watchdog reports that have criticized its management.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

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