surveillance
Meaning
Surveillance refers to the systematic observation or monitoring of individuals, groups, or environments, often employed by governmental or organizational entities to gather information for security, regulatory, or research purposes. It encompasses various
💡 While "surveillance" is often associated with negative connotations related to privacy infringement, it can also be used in neutral contexts, such as public health monitoring or research, where the intent is to ensure safety or gather data for beneficial outcomes.
Example Sentences
Word in Context
Every
evening
a
small
research
team
gathers
at
the
town
square
to
conduct
unobtrusive
surveillance
of
pedestrian
flows
,
hoping
to
identify
patterns
that
might
improve
public
space
design
.
They
set
up
lightweight
cameras
and
take
systematic
notes
,
while
talking
quietly
so
as
not
to
influence
people's
behaviour
.
Although
the
work
demands
patience
,
the
researchers
value
clear
consent
procedures
and
open
communication
with
local
residents
,
which
helps
maintain
trust
.
Over
several
weeks
they
compare
morning
and
evening
counts
,
noting
subtle
shifts
after
minor
changes
to
benches
and
lighting
.
In
the
end
,
their
report
recommends
a
few
practical
adjustments
that
could
make
the
square
more
welcoming
without
altering
its
character
.
Common Phrases
mass surveillance
surveillance technology
surveillance state
Related Words
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