Check, Control, Keep an Eye on, Supervise

Check, Control, Keep an Eye on, Supervise

Hello English learners! Welcome to a new lesson! Have you ever got mixed up about the difference between words like check, control, keep an eye on, supervise? Mastering these distinctions is important, especially if you are preparing for Cambridge exams such as B2 First (FCE) or C1 Advanced (CAE), where precise word choice can make your writing and speaking sound much more natural.

Check

Meaning: to examine something in order to make sure it is correct, safe, or in good condition.  It usually implies a quick or specific action rather than long-term responsibility.

Example sentences:

• Before handing in the exam, she checked her answers carefully.
• Could you please check the oven to see if the cake is ready?
• I need to check my emails before leaving the office.
• The police officer checked his ID before letting him through.
• Always check the spelling of names in official documents.

Check often refers to a momentary, “snapshot” action.

Control

Meaning: to have power over something or someone, to regulate behaviour or processes. It suggests authority, restraint, or influence. Stronger than “check.”

Example sentences:

• The government is trying to control the spread of misinformation online.
• You must learn to control your temper in stressful situations.
• Parents should not try to control every decision their teenagers make.
• The company controls most of the market in this region.
• He struggled to control his laughter during the meeting.
• Control is about power and influence, not just observation.

Check, Control, Keep an Eye on, Supervise

Keep an eye on

Meaning: to watch or monitor something carefully, often informally, to make sure it does not cause problems. The expression is colloquial and idiomatic.

Example sentences:

• Can you keep an eye on my bag while I go to the toilet?
• The teacher asked the older students to keep an eye on the younger ones.
• I’ll keep an eye on the soup so it doesn’t boil over.
• You need to keep an eye on your spending if you want to save money.
• She likes to keep an eye on her neighbours’ garden for inspiration.

Supervise

Meaning: to oversee people or activities to ensure they are done correctly, safely, or efficiently. The verb is formal, it has to do with responsibility and authority.

Example sentences:

• The manager’s role is to supervise the team’s daily work.
• Children under 12 must be supervised at all times in the swimming pool.
• He was hired to supervise the construction of the new building.
• Teachers are required to supervise students during exams.
• The head nurse will supervise the training of new staff.
• The verb supervise involves responsibility, authority, and accountability.

Check, Control, Keep an Eye on, Supervise

Comparison in context

A parent might check their child’s homework (quick look),

Keep an eye on them while they play outside (casual watch),

Control their internet use (power/regulation),

and supervise their swimming lesson (formal oversight).

Quick summary:

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