under his eye

USAGE SUMMARY

"under his eye" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to something that is being observed or monitored by someone, usually with an implication of strict control or supervision. For example: "The entire project was completed under his eye, ensuring no mistakes were made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He's also got a nasty graze under his eye.

The Guardian - Sport

UC Berkeley Events Calendar: Modern Surveillance: Living "Under His Eye" A surveillance society is taking hold.

University of California, Berkeley

Seventy years ago, Willy kept his journeymen laboring under his eye.

The New York Times - Books

Under his eye patch is a false eye that is deep blue.

The Washington Post

And there is Rashid, who walks with a limp, and has a scar under his eye.

The New Yorker

He has black hair, parted on one side, and a freckle, right here, under his eye.

The New Yorker

By the eighth, the right side of his face under his eye was swollen from Senchenko's slick jab.

Independent

One Halloween, Chris Don and Dottieie's foster child — dresses up as a battered wife, with dark makeup under his eye.

The New York Times

The top story wall of its courtyard is a rare example of an architectural unit fully finished under his eye.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Every morning in the mirror, Green sees the scars on his head and under his eye staring back at him.

The New York Times - Sports

(People greet one another with stilted imprecations: "Under his eye," they say, and answer, "Blessed be the fruit").

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of surveillance or control when using this phrase, as it can imply a power dynamic.

Common error

Avoid using "under his eye" when a neutral or positive sense of oversight is intended. If you mean simply 'supervised by' without the implication of strict control, choose a more neutral phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under his eye" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating the manner or condition in which an action is performed. It signifies that the action occurs while being observed or supervised by someone. Ludwig examples show this in contexts of work being completed or people behaving a certain way.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "under his eye" functions as an adverbial phrase indicating direct observation or supervision, predominantly in news and media, as supported by Ludwig examples. It carries a neutral tone, suggesting scrutiny and control. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. When employing this phrase, consider its implications of power dynamics and choose it judiciously. Remember alternative phrases like "under his supervision" for scenarios needing a lighter tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

under his supervision

Focuses more on the act of supervising, implying guidance and oversight.

under his control

Emphasizes the power and authority he has over the situation or person.

under his command

Suggests a more direct and authoritative form of control, typically in a hierarchical setting.

under his gaze

Highlights the act of being watched, often with a sense of scrutiny or judgment.

in his presence

Focuses on the physical proximity and influence of the person.

under his jurisdiction

Implies legal or official authority and control.

within his purview

Indicates that something falls within the scope of his responsibility or authority.

subject to his approval

Emphasizes the need for his consent or permission.

accountable to him

Highlights the responsibility to answer to him for actions or decisions.

within his sphere of influence

Indicates a broader, less direct form of control or impact.

FAQs

How can "under his eye" be used in a sentence?

You can use "under his eye" to indicate someone is being directly supervised or observed, such as "The project was completed successfully "under his eye"." It suggests a close watch and a degree of control.

What are some alternatives to "under his eye"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "under his supervision", "under his control", or "in his presence". The best choice will depend on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What does the phrase "under his eye" imply?

The phrase "under his eye" often implies a sense of scrutiny, oversight, or control. It suggests someone is being watched closely, and their actions are being monitored.

Is "under his eye" formal or informal?

While usable in various contexts, "under his eye" tends to lean towards neutral in tone. It is not extremely formal but not highly casual either and depending on the situation could be substituted by alternatives like "under his supervision".