under surveillance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'under surveillance' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which someone or something is monitored or observed, usually for security purposes. For example, you could write: "The suspect was placed under surveillance by the police."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm under surveillance.

The New York Times

She was under surveillance.

The New York Times

Monasteries are also under surveillance.

The Economist

They are under surveillance.

The Guardian - Music

Brothers placed under surveillance.

The New Yorker

"We're always under surveillance.

The Guardian - Sport

I was under surveillance for years.

The New Yorker

Activists say they are kept under surveillance.

The Economist

But police had the gang under surveillance.

Independent

Suspected collaborators are placed under surveillance.

Independent

Both men were also kept under surveillance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "under surveillance", clearly state who or what is conducting the surveillance to provide context and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "under surveillance" loosely; it implies a focused, intentional observation. Using it for casual observation weakens the term's impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "under surveillance" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun. It indicates the state of being watched or monitored, typically by authorities or other entities, as supported by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Science

11%

Formal & Business

4%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "under surveillance" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe the state of being watched or monitored. Ludwig AI confirms its wide usage across various contexts, predominantly in news and media, but also in science and formal settings. Related phrases include "being monitored" and "under observation", each with slightly different connotations. When using "under surveillance", it's important to clearly identify the entity conducting the monitoring. Be mindful that the term implies intentional and focused observation, not just casual awareness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being monitored

Focuses on the act of monitoring rather than the state of being observed.

under observation

Implies a more passive form of watching, often for scientific or medical reasons.

being watched

A more general term that lacks the specific implication of scrutiny associated with "surveillance".

under scrutiny

Emphasizes critical examination, often in a negative context.

kept under watch

Highlights the continuous aspect of being observed.

subject to observation

A formal way of expressing that someone or something is being watched.

tracked

Focuses on following the movement of someone or something.

followed closely

Implies observation of movement or actions but with a personal focus.

on the radar

Suggests awareness and monitoring but not necessarily direct observation.

subject to monitoring

Highlights the process of monitoring rather than the condition of being under observation.

FAQs

How is "under surveillance" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "under surveillance" is used to indicate that a person, place, or thing is being watched, usually because of suspicion or for security. For example, "The suspect was placed "under surveillance" by the police."

What are some alternatives to saying "under surveillance"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "being monitored", "under observation", or "being watched".

What's the difference between "under observation" and "under surveillance"?

"Under observation" generally implies a more passive form of watching, often for medical or scientific reasons, while "under surveillance" suggests a more active and intentional monitoring, usually for security or suspicion.

Is it appropriate to use "under surveillance" in formal writing?

Yes, "under surveillance" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in news reports, legal documents, and academic papers, as it clearly and accurately describes a specific type of monitoring.