under close watch

USAGE SUMMARY

"under close watch" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used when an object or person is being monitored or surveilled. For example: "The suspect was kept under close watch by the police."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

The newly obtained documents show that he had been kept under close watch before his arrest.

The New York Times

During this time, people deemed to be potential troublemakers are kept under close watch by the police.

The New York Times

Shiites, considered to be an opposing political force and a threat to Mr. Hussein's power, were kept under close watch.

The New York Times

Generally speaking, rich families and families with relatives in ARVN were mistrusted and kept under close watch.

The New Yorker

The buzz: "Sheffield four-piece Starlings – definitely a band to keep under close watch in 2011" – Piccadillyrecords.com.

The Guardian - Music

Shiites, considered to be an alternate political force and a threat to Hussein's power, were kept under close watch.

The New York Times

Nearly 40 video cameras have been installed throughout the building so that its residents are kept under close watch at all times.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

Parents are so rattled by reports of rapes and kidnappings that they keep their girls under closer watch than ever.

The New York Times

Starting last week, CIT came under closer watch from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, its principal regulator.

Forbes

If the jail's account of Bland's death is accurate, this raises questions about whether she should have been under closer watch.

Huffington Post

This association may be explained by the concept that patients receiving immunosuppressive medications are under closer watch by their physicians.

BMC Pulmonary Medicine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "under close watch" when you want to emphasize that someone or something is being carefully monitored to prevent unwanted actions or ensure safety.

Common error

While "under close watch" is widely applicable, avoid using it in overly casual situations where simpler phrases like "keeping an eye on" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under close watch" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a verb to indicate the manner in which an action is performed. As confirmed by Ludwig, it describes a state of being carefully observed or monitored.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

15%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under close watch" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to describe careful monitoring or observation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability. Appearing frequently in news, academic, and even encyclopedic contexts, it conveys a sense of diligence and attention. While "under close watch" is generally appropriate for neutral to formal settings, remember to consider simpler alternatives like "keeping an eye on" in casual conversations. Be confident that you now know everything about "under close watch"!

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely monitored

This is a passive construction emphasizing the act of monitoring.

under careful observation

Highlights thoroughness and attention to detail in watching.

under surveillance

Implies a more formal, often secretive, type of observation.

under observation

A general term for being watched, often in a medical or scientific setting.

carefully observed

Highlights the attentiveness of the observation.

under constant vigilance

Implies a continuous and alert state of watchfulness.

closely supervised

Suggests oversight and direction, often in a professional or training context.

meticulously monitored

Suggests a high degree of precision and detail in the monitoring process.

under scrutiny

Implies critical examination and potential judgment.

closely guarded

Emphasizes protection and preventing escape or access.

FAQs

How can I use "under close watch" in a sentence?

You can use "under close watch" to indicate that someone or something is being carefully monitored. For example, "The suspect was kept under close watch by the authorities".

What are some alternatives to "under close watch"?

Alternatives include "closely monitored", "under surveillance", or "carefully observed", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more formal to say "under close watch" or "keeping an eye on"?

"Under close watch" is generally more formal than "keeping an eye on". The former is suitable for official reports and news articles, while the latter is better for casual conversation.

What is the difference between "under close watch" and "under close monitoring"?

"Under close watch" implies a general state of being observed for potential issues. "Under close monitoring", while similar, often refers to a more technical or systematic observation, frequently involving specific metrics or data collection.