“Overlook” and “oversee” are two words that can be confusing due to their similar prefixes, but they have distinct meanings. “Overlook” means to fail to notice or ignore something, while “oversee” means to supervise or manage. This lesson will clarify their meanings and provide examples of each.
Overlook
Definition:
“Overlook” means to fail to notice, disregard, or ignore something.
Examples of use:
We overlooked the fact that he failed to win the big game, which led to an oversight in our report.
She overlooked the minor errors in the document, leading to a final submission with mistakes.
The committee accidentally overlooked several important details in the proposal.
Oversee
Definition:
“Oversee” means to direct, supervise, or manage something or someone.
Examples of use:
He was hired to oversee the manufacturing site and ensure that all processes ran smoothly.
The project manager will oversee the development of the new software from start to finish.
She was appointed to oversee the implementation of the new company policies.
“Overlook” refers to failing to notice or ignoring something, while “oversee” involves supervising or managing. Understanding these terms helps in choosing the right word for various contexts, ensuring clear and accurate communication.
