Supervision

Definition

Supervision refers to the act or process of overseeing, directing, or managing a task or a group of individuals to ensure that objectives are met efficiently and effectively.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌsuːpərˈvɪʒən/
• Respelling: SOO-pur-VIZH-uhn (with "SOO" as in "soon," "pur" as a schwa sound like the 'u' in "supply," "VIZH" as in "vision," and "uhn" as in "fun")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌsuːpəˈvɪʒən/
• Respelling: SOO-puh-VIZH-uhn (similar to American English, with "SOO" as in "soon," "puh" as a softer schwa, "VIZH" like in "vision," and "uhn" as in "fun")

In both dialects, "supervision" is pronounced with stress on the "VIZH" syllable. The word starts with "SOO," followed by a softer middle syllable, and ends with "VIZH-uhn," consistent across both American and British English, indicating the action or process of supervising.

Etymology

The term "supervision" originates from the Latin word supervisio, from super- (over) + visio (vision) which is derived from the verb videre (to see). It entered the English language in the early 15th century, embodying the notion of overseeing or inspecting something.

Derivatives

• Supervisory (adjective)
• Supervisor (noun)
• Supervise (verb)
• Supervisee (noun)
• Unsupervised (adjective)

Synonyms

• Oversight
• Monitoring
• Management

Antonyms

• Neglect
• Ignorance
• Abandonment

Usage

The term "supervision" is widely used in various fields such as education, administration, and employment to refer to the act of overseeing or managing the tasks or performance of individuals.

Related Terms

• Administration
• Guidance
• Direction

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Management Oversight: The act of overseeing the performance or tasks of individuals or groups to ensure the objectives are met satisfactorily.
• Example: Proper supervision is necessary to ensure the safety and quality of the project.

• Guidance and Direction: The process of providing guidance, direction, and feedback to improve performance or ensure adherence to certain standards or objectives.
• Example: Supervision during the internship helped the students learn the practical aspects of the job.

• Monitoring Compliance: Ensuring that activities are carried out in compliance with certain guidelines, laws, or standards.
• Example: Supervision of the manufacturing process is crucial for adhering to industry standards.