Definition

Verb: - To observe attentively or protectively; to keep under careful observation, often for the purpose of care, supervision, or security. It implies a sense of responsibility for the well-being or safety of what is being observed.

Usage

The verb "watch over" is used to describe the action of supervising, guarding, or looking after someone or something. It often carries a connotation of care, protection, or vigilance. - It is typically followed by a direct object (the person or thing being watched over). - It is commonly used in contexts involving caregiving, security, or spiritual guidance.

Examples

• Basic Usage:
  • The shepherd watched over his flock. (The shepherd carefully observed and protected his sheep.)
  • Please watch over my luggage while I buy a ticket. (Please keep an eye on my bags for their safety.)
• Extended Contexts:
  • Many believe that angels watch over us. (Many believe that angels protectively observe and guard us.)
  • As a manager, it is her duty to watch over the new interns. (As a manager, she is responsible for supervising the new interns.)

Advanced Usage

• "to watch over someone's shoulder": To monitor someone's work or actions very closely, often intrusively.
  • I can't work creatively if you're constantly watching over my shoulder.
• The phrase can be used in a more abstract, metaphorical sense to describe a protective or guiding influence.
  • The memory of her teachings watched over him throughout his career.

Variants and Related Words

• Oversee (verb): To supervise (a process, work, or workers). This often implies a managerial role.
• Supervise (verb): To observe and direct the execution of a task or the work of a person.
• Guard (verb): To watch over in order to protect or control.
• Look after (phrasal verb): To take care of someone or something. This is a close synonym but often implies more active caregiving.

Synonyms

• Monitor: To observe and check the progress or quality of something over a period of time.
• Keep an eye on: (Idiomatic) To watch or look after someone or something.
• Protect: To keep safe from harm or injury. "Watch over" often includes this meaning.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Watch out for: To be vigilant and alert for potential danger or problems.
  • Watch out for icy patches on the road.
• Look out for: Similar to "watch out for," it means to be alert to notice or find someone or something.
  • Can you look out for my sister at the station?

Related Idioms

• Keep watch: To stay awake or vigilant in order to look after, protect, or guard.
  • The soldiers kept watch through the night.
• Under someone's watchful eye: Being closely observed or supervised by someone.
  • The children practiced under their teacher's watchful eye.

Verb

1. follow with the eyes or the mind
   • Keep an eye on the baby, please!
   • The world is watching Sarajevo
   • She followed the men with the binoculars