surveiller in 30 Sekunden
- To watch over, monitor, or keep an eye on someone or something.
- Implies active vigilance and responsibility.
- Used in contexts like childcare, security, and technical monitoring.
- Conjugates as a regular -er verb.
The French verb surveiller translates directly to "to watch over," "to monitor," or "to keep an eye on" in English. It implies a level of vigilance and responsibility, suggesting someone is actively observing to ensure safety, proper functioning, or to prevent something from happening. This verb is used in a wide range of contexts, from the mundane to the serious.
In everyday life, you might use surveiller when talking about parents watching their children playing, a teacher supervising students during an exam, or even keeping an eye on a pot on the stove to make sure it doesn't boil over. It can also refer to the act of observing a process, like a technician monitoring a computer system or a scientist observing an experiment. The sense of responsibility is key; you're not just passively looking, but actively paying attention.
In more serious contexts, surveiller can mean to keep under surveillance, such as police monitoring a suspect or security guards watching over a building. It can also be used in professional settings, like a doctor monitoring a patient's condition or an engineer surveilling the structural integrity of a bridge. The core idea remains consistent: active, attentive observation with a purpose, whether that purpose is safety, control, or data collection. The nuance lies in the context – who is watching whom, and why.
Consider the phrase 'surveiller la cuisson' (to watch the cooking). This implies not just looking at the food, but checking its progress, ensuring it doesn't burn, and knowing when it's ready. Similarly, 'surveiller les enfants' means to make sure they are safe and behaving appropriately, not just to glance at them occasionally. The verb carries a sense of duty or necessity to maintain a certain state or prevent undesirable outcomes. It's about being attentive and intervening if necessary. This active vigilance is what distinguishes surveiller from simply 'regarder' (to look at).
The verb can also be used reflexively, as in 'se surveiller', meaning to watch oneself, to be careful, or to monitor one's own behavior or health. For instance, someone with a medical condition might need to 'se surveiller' closely. This adds another layer to the verb's utility, allowing it to express self-awareness and self-regulation. The common thread is always the idea of attentive observation, whether directed outward or inward.
Think about the feeling of being watched. When a parent tells you they are 'surveillering' you, it means they are paying attention to your actions. In a museum, security guards 'surveiller' the artworks. In a hospital, nurses 'surveiller' the patients. In a classroom, teachers 'surveiller' the students. This verb is fundamental for expressing the concept of oversight and care. It's about maintaining a level of control or awareness over a situation or individuals.
The contexts are vast. A gardener might surveiller their plants for pests. A pilot must surveiller the instruments. A chef must surveiller the simmering sauce. Even in a more abstract sense, one might surveiller the progress of a project or surveiller the news. The verb is versatile because the act of watching with a purpose is a universal human activity. It signifies a proactive stance, rather than a passive one. It's about being engaged with what you are observing.
The verb surveiller is a regular -er verb in French, meaning its conjugation follows the standard pattern. It takes the auxiliary verb 'avoir' in compound tenses. You can use it transitively, with a direct object, or reflexively. Understanding its placement within a sentence is crucial for accurate communication.
As a transitive verb, surveiller is followed directly by the person or thing being watched. For example, 'Je surveille mes enfants' (I am watching my children). The object is placed immediately after the verb. In questions, the word order might change, but the direct object remains linked to the verb: 'Qui surveille la classe ?' (Who is supervising the class?).
In compound tenses like the passé composé, surveiller uses 'avoir' as its auxiliary verb. For instance, 'J'ai surveillé les élèves pendant l'examen' (I supervised the students during the exam). The past participle 'surveillé' agrees in gender and number with the direct object if the direct object precedes the verb (which is less common with surveiller unless using pronouns like 'le', 'la', 'les').
The reflexive form, 'se surveiller', is used when the subject is also the object of the watching. This means 'to watch oneself' or 'to be careful'. For example, 'Il doit se surveiller pour ne pas tomber malade' (He must watch himself to avoid getting sick). Here, 'se' is the reflexive pronoun referring back to the subject 'Il'.
You can also use surveiller with an infinitive, often implying the need to watch for something to happen or to ensure something is done. For example, 'Il faut surveiller que tout se passe bien' (It is necessary to ensure that everything goes well). In this construction, 'que' introduces a subordinate clause, and the verb in that clause is often in the subjunctive mood if there's an element of doubt or desire, but here, it's more about active oversight.
Consider the nuances of time. In the present tense, 'Je surveille' means 'I am watching' or 'I watch'. In the imperfect, 'Je surveillais', it implies an ongoing action in the past: 'Je surveillais le bébé pendant qu'il dormait' (I was watching the baby while he slept). The future tense, 'Je surveillerai', means 'I will watch'.
The verb can also be used with indirect objects, though this is less common and usually involves prepositions like 'de' if referring to the act of watching *from* a place, or if the object is introduced by 'à' in specific idiomatic phrases. However, the most standard usage is with a direct object or as a reflexive verb.
The imperative mood is also important: 'Surveille !' (Watch out!) or 'Surveillez-nous !' (Watch us!). This command form emphasizes the urgency or importance of the act of watching.
You'll encounter the verb surveiller in a multitude of everyday conversations and formal settings across the French-speaking world. Its versatility means it pops up in contexts ranging from casual family discussions to official reports and news broadcasts.
In families, parents frequently use it when talking about their children. 'Surveille ton petit frère !' (Watch your little brother!) is a common instruction. You might hear someone say, 'Je dois surveiller mon fils à la piscine' (I have to watch my son at the pool). This highlights the protective aspect of the verb.
In educational environments, teachers use surveiller constantly. During exams, 'Le professeur surveille la salle' (The teacher is watching the room). In kindergartens or daycare centers, the staff's primary role is to surveiller the children. 'Les nounous surveilleront les enfants pendant la récréation' (The nannies will supervise the children during recess).
Security and public safety are major domains where surveiller is prevalent. 'Les agents de sécurité surveilleront le bâtiment' (Security agents will monitor the building). News reports might mention police 'surveiller une zone suspecte' (monitoring a suspicious area). Surveillance cameras are often referred to as 'caméras de surveillance' (surveillance cameras).
In professional settings, especially those involving monitoring or quality control, the verb is essential. A doctor might say, 'Nous devons surveiller son état de santé' (We must monitor his health condition). An engineer might surveiller the performance of a system. 'Il est important de surveiller la température' (It is important to monitor the temperature).
Even in domestic contexts, it's used for tasks. 'Surveille le gâteau, il va brûler !' (Watch the cake, it's going to burn!). This is a very common, urgent instruction. Or 'Je surveille la cuisson des pâtes' (I am watching the pasta cook).
The reflexive form 'se surveiller' is often heard in health or self-improvement contexts. 'Je me surveille pour ne pas manger trop de sucre' (I am watching myself to avoid eating too much sugar). Or in a medical context, 'Le patient doit se surveiller attentivement' (The patient must monitor himself carefully).
In France, especially in cities, you'll hear about 'la surveillance de la voie publique' (public street surveillance). In Quebec, you might hear parents saying 'Je surveille les enfants' when they are playing outside. The concept is universal, and the verb is a direct reflection of that.
Learners of French often make a few common mistakes when using the verb surveiller, primarily related to confusion with similar-sounding or semantically related English words, or misunderstanding its specific nuances.
One frequent error is confusing surveiller with 'superviser'. While they are cognates and share a similar meaning, 'superviser' often implies a more formal, managerial oversight, whereas surveiller can be more about direct, active watching. For instance, a teacher might surveiller students during an exam, but a manager might surveiller the work of their team. In many cases, they are interchangeable, but surveiller has a broader application for simple observation.
Another common pitfall is using surveiller when 'regarder' (to look at) would be more appropriate. If you are simply looking at something without any specific intent of vigilance or care, 'regarder' is the correct verb. For example, 'Je regarde la télévision' (I am watching television) – you wouldn't say 'Je surveille la télévision' unless you were perhaps checking if it was about to break.
Confusion can also arise with the reflexive form 'se surveiller'. Learners might incorrectly use it to mean 'to supervise oneself' in a way that implies self-management of tasks, rather than the more common meaning of 'to watch oneself' in terms of health, behavior, or safety. For example, saying 'Je me surveille pour mon travail' might be understood, but it's more natural to say 'Je veille à mon travail' (I pay attention to my work) or 'Je me concentre sur mon travail' (I concentrate on my work).
Incorrect conjugation is also a possibility, especially with the imperative or in compound tenses. Forgetting the 'i' in the 'nous' form ('nous surveillons') or incorrectly forming the past participle ('j'ai surveillé') can lead to errors.
Finally, learners might sometimes use surveiller in contexts where a more specific verb would be better. For example, instead of saying 'Je surveille la météo' (I am monitoring the weather), it might be more natural to say 'Je regarde la météo' (I am checking the weather) or 'Je suis les prévisions météo' (I am following the weather forecast).
The key is to remember that surveiller implies a degree of active, attentive observation, often with a purpose of ensuring safety, correctness, or preventing something undesirable. If the watching is passive or purely for enjoyment, 'regarder' is usually the better choice.
While surveiller is a common and versatile verb, several other French words can be used depending on the specific nuance and context. Understanding these alternatives helps in expressing yourself more precisely.
Regarder: This is the most basic verb for 'to look at' or 'to watch'. It implies passive observation without necessarily any sense of vigilance or responsibility. If you are simply watching TV or looking at a painting, you 'regardez'.
Observer: This verb means 'to observe' and is often used in a more scientific, analytical, or detailed manner. You might 'observer' a phenomenon, a behavior, or a patient's symptoms with a specific focus on detail and study. It's more formal than 'regarder' and implies a deeper level of attention than 'surveiller' in some contexts.
Veiller: This verb can mean 'to watch over', 'to stay awake', or 'to ensure'. When used as 'veiller sur quelqu'un/quelque chose', it strongly implies taking care of someone or something, often with a sense of protection and responsibility, similar to surveiller but perhaps with a stronger emotional or protective connotation. 'Veiller' can also mean 'to stay awake' (e.g., 'veiller tard').
Garder: This verb means 'to keep' or 'to guard'. When used in the sense of 'garder un œil sur' (to keep an eye on), it is very close to surveiller, often implying a continuous, watchful presence, especially for safety. For example, 'Garde un œil sur les enfants' is almost synonymous with 'Surveille les enfants'.
Contrôler: This verb means 'to control' or 'to check'. While you might surveiller a process to ensure it's correct, you 'contrôlez' it to actively manage or verify it. For example, you might surveiller the temperature, but you 'contrôlez' the heating system.
Superviser: As mentioned in the common mistakes section, this verb implies a more formal, managerial oversight. A boss 'supervise' their employees' work, while a parent might 'surveiller' their child. Both involve watching, but the nature of the authority and the task differs.
In summary, choose surveiller when you mean to watch actively with vigilance and a purpose, especially for safety or proper functioning. Use 'regarder' for casual looking, 'observer' for detailed study, 'veiller sur' for caring watchfulness, 'garder un œil sur' for keeping a close watch, 'contrôler' for managing or checking, and 'superviser' for formal management.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The root 'veiller' itself comes from the Latin 'vigilare', meaning 'to be watchful or awake', which also gives us the English word 'vigil'. The prefix 'sur-' (over) adds the dimension of active oversight.
Aussprachehilfe
Schwierigkeitsgrad
The verb itself is straightforward, but understanding the nuances in various contexts (e.g., security, health, cooking) requires exposure. Recognizing its use in compound tenses and reflexive forms adds to the reading challenge.
Conjugating it correctly, especially in different tenses and moods, and choosing the appropriate synonym based on context can be challenging for learners.
Pronunciation of the French 'r' and vowel sounds can be tricky. Using it naturally in conversation requires practice with context and appropriate register.
Distinguishing 'surveiller' from similar verbs like 'regarder' or 'observer' in spoken French, especially in fast speech, requires attentive listening skills.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Conjugation of regular -er verbs
Like 'parler' or 'manger', 'surveiller' follows the standard pattern: je surveille, tu surveilles, il surveille, nous surveillons, vous surveillez, ils surveillent.
Use of auxiliary verbs in compound tenses (Passé Composé)
'Surveiller' uses 'avoir': J'ai surveillé, tu as surveillé, il a surveillé, etc.
Reflexive verbs
When the action is done by the subject to itself, use the reflexive pronoun: Je me surveille, tu te surveilles, il se surveille, etc.
Usage of 'il faut' + infinitive
Expressing necessity: Il faut surveiller la cuisson.
Subordinate clauses introduced by 'que'
Surveiller que personne n'entre. (Often followed by subjunctive if there's doubt/desire, but indicative is also common for factual oversight).
Beispiele nach Niveau
Je surveille le chat.
I am watching the cat.
Simple present tense, singular subject.
Regarde, je surveille le feu.
Look, I am watching the fire.
Imperative 'Regarde' followed by a statement.
Papa surveille les enfants.
Dad is watching the children.
Present tense, plural object.
Il surveille la porte.
He is watching the door.
Third person singular present tense.
Nous surveillons la cuisson.
We are watching the cooking.
Present tense, plural subject.
Tu surveilles le chien?
Are you watching the dog?
Question using intonation.
Elle surveille le bébé.
She is watching the baby.
Third person singular present tense.
Je surveille mon téléphone.
I am watching my phone.
Common usage for keeping an eye on a device.
Le gardien surveille l'entrée du bâtiment.
The guard is watching the entrance of the building.
Present tense, common professional context.
J'ai surveillé les enfants pendant que tu étais absent.
I watched the children while you were absent.
Passé composé, indicating a completed action in the past.
Il faut surveiller la température de l'eau.
It is necessary to monitor the water temperature.
'Il faut' construction, expressing necessity.
Elle se surveille pour ne pas tomber malade.
She is watching herself to avoid getting sick.
Reflexive verb 'se surveiller'.
Le professeur surveillait la classe pendant l'examen.
The teacher was supervising the class during the exam.
Imperfect tense, describing an ongoing action in the past.
Nous devons surveiller les mouvements suspects.
We must monitor suspicious movements.
'Devoir' + infinitive, expressing obligation.
Surveille le gaz, s'il te plaît.
Watch the gas, please.
Imperative form, polite request.
Les caméras surveillent tout le périmètre.
The cameras monitor the entire perimeter.
Plural subject, present tense.
Le personnel de sécurité est chargé de surveiller les allées et venues.
The security personnel are in charge of monitoring comings and goings.
Use of 'être chargé de' + infinitive, formal context.
Il est crucial de surveiller l'évolution de la situation.
It is crucial to monitor the evolution of the situation.
'Il est crucial de' + infinitive, abstract context.
Depuis son accident, il se surveille de près.
Since his accident, he watches himself closely.
Reflexive verb with adverb 'de près'.
Les parents ont décidé de surveiller les activités de leurs adolescents sur internet.
The parents decided to monitor their teenagers' online activities.
Passé composé, infinitive after 'décider de'.
Les scientifiques surveillent l'impact des changements climatiques.
Scientists are monitoring the impact of climate change.
Present tense, scientific context.
Elle surveillait la préparation du dîner avec attention.
She was carefully watching the preparation of dinner.
Imperfect tense, emphasizing attention.
Il faut surveiller que personne n'entre sans autorisation.
It is necessary to ensure that no one enters without authorization.
'Surveiller que' + subordinate clause (often subjunctive, but indicative possible here for factual oversight).
La compagnie a installé des systèmes pour surveiller la consommation d'énergie.
The company installed systems to monitor energy consumption.
Infinitive after 'pour', indicating purpose.
Les autorités compétentes sont chargées de surveiller l'application des nouvelles réglementations.
The competent authorities are responsible for monitoring the application of the new regulations.
Formal vocabulary, 'autorités compétentes', 'application des réglementations'.
Il est primordial de surveiller attentivement les indicateurs économiques.
It is paramount to carefully monitor the economic indicators.
'Primordial' (paramount), 'attentivement' (carefully), 'indicateurs économiques'.
Après son opération, le patient devait se surveiller pour détecter tout signe de complication.
After his operation, the patient had to monitor himself to detect any sign of complication.
Past obligation with 'devoir' + infinitive, reflexive verb.
Les enquêteurs ont passé des heures à surveiller le suspect.
The investigators spent hours watching the suspect.
Passé composé, emphasizing duration ('des heures').
L'organisme international surveille le respect des droits de l'homme.
The international organization monitors respect for human rights.
Abstract subject, formal context.
Elle surveillait discrètement la conversation pour s'assurer que personne ne parlait de leur projet secret.
She discreetly monitored the conversation to ensure no one was talking about their secret project.
Adverb 'discrètement', purpose clause with 'pour s'assurer que'.
Il faut surveiller la propagation du virus afin d'éviter une nouvelle pandémie.
It is necessary to monitor the spread of the virus in order to avoid a new pandemic.
Purpose clause with 'afin de', abstract concept.
Les systèmes de sécurité avancés permettent de surveiller en temps réel les flux de données.
Advanced security systems allow for real-time monitoring of data flows.
Use of 'permettre de' + infinitive, technical context.
Il incombe aux agences gouvernementales de surveiller scrupuleusement les transactions financières suspectes.
It is incumbent upon government agencies to scrupulously monitor suspicious financial transactions.
Formal phrasing 'Il incombe à', adverb 'scrupuleusement'.
La politique de l'entreprise exige de surveiller la conformité aux normes éthiques.
The company's policy requires monitoring compliance with ethical standards.
Abstract concepts, 'conformité aux normes'.
Après son séjour prolongé, le patient a dû se surveiller méticuleusement pour éviter toute rechute.
After his extended stay, the patient had to meticulously monitor himself to avoid any relapse.
Reflexive verb, advanced adverb 'méticuleusement', abstract noun 'rechute'.
Les services de renseignement ont été mandatés pour surveiller les communications des groupes extrémistes.
The intelligence services were mandated to monitor the communications of extremist groups.
Formal vocabulary 'mandatés', abstract noun 'communications'.
Le rôle de l'ONU est de surveiller le maintien de la paix internationale.
The role of the UN is to monitor the maintenance of international peace.
Abstract subject, formal context.
Elle surveillait subtilement l'atmosphère de la pièce, guettant le moindre signe de mécontentement.
She subtly monitored the atmosphere of the room, watching for the slightest sign of discontent.
Adverb 'subtilement', participial phrase 'guettant'.
Il est impératif de surveiller l'application des accords internationaux pour garantir leur effectivité.
It is imperative to monitor the application of international agreements to ensure their effectiveness.
Formal vocabulary 'impératif', abstract nouns 'accords', 'effectivité'.
Les plateformes numériques permettent désormais de surveiller en temps réel la diffusion de fausses informations.
Digital platforms now allow for real-time monitoring of the spread of false information.
Technical context, 'fausses informations'.
La vigilance constante des autorités est essentielle pour surveiller la prolifération des armes illicites.
The constant vigilance of the authorities is essential to monitor the proliferation of illicit weapons.
Advanced vocabulary 'prolifération', 'illicites', 'vigilance constante'.
Dans le domaine de la cybersécurité, il est primordial de surveiller l'intégrité des réseaux informatiques.
In the field of cybersecurity, it is paramount to monitor the integrity of computer networks.
Specialized vocabulary 'cybersécurité', 'intégrité des réseaux'.
Le patient, sous traitement intensif, devait se surveiller avec une rigueur absolue afin d'éviter toute récidive.
The patient, under intensive treatment, had to monitor himself with absolute rigor to avoid any relapse.
Reflexive verb, advanced adverbial phrase 'avec une rigueur absolue'.
Les services de contre-espionnage ont déployé des moyens considérables pour surveiller les activités des agents hostiles.
The counter-intelligence services deployed considerable resources to monitor the activities of hostile agents.
Specialized vocabulary 'contre-espionnage', 'déployé des moyens considérables'.
La mission de l'organisation est de surveiller l'application des conventions internationales relatives aux droits de l'enfant.
The organization's mission is to monitor the application of international conventions relating to children's rights.
Formal phrasing, specialized context.
Elle observait, presque imperceptiblement, les réactions de chaque convive, afin de surveiller l'ambiance de la soirée.
She observed, almost imperceptibly, the reactions of each guest, in order to monitor the atmosphere of the evening.
Advanced adverbs 'imperceptiblement', participial phrase.
Il est de la plus haute importance de surveiller la mise en œuvre des réformes structurelles pour en assurer le succès.
It is of the utmost importance to monitor the implementation of structural reforms to ensure their success.
Formal phrasing 'de la plus haute importance', abstract nouns 'mise en œuvre', 'réformes structurelles'.
Les algorithmes sophistiqués sont conçus pour surveiller en temps réel les fluctuations des marchés financiers mondiaux.
Sophisticated algorithms are designed to monitor real-time fluctuations in global financial markets.
Technical and financial vocabulary, 'fluctuations'.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— To watch attentively; to monitor closely.
Il faut surveiller attentivement le comportement des enfants dans un nouvel environnement.
— To watch something very closely, with great anxiety or care, as if it were milk on the verge of boiling over.
Elle surveille comme le lait sur le feu la guérison de son fils après l'opération.
— To ensure that; to see to it that.
Veuillez surveiller que toutes les portes soient bien fermées avant de partir.
— To watch oneself; to be careful; to monitor one's health or behavior.
Je me surveille pour ne pas trop manger de sucreries.
— The act of watching over; surveillance; monitoring.
La surveillance constante des caméras permet d'assurer la sécurité du bâtiment.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
'Superviser' implies formal management and direction, whereas 'surveiller' is more about active watching and vigilance, often without formal authority.
'Observer' suggests a more detailed, analytical, or scientific study, while 'surveiller' is about watching for safety, control, or proper functioning.
'Regarder' means simply 'to look at' and implies passive observation, whereas 'surveiller' requires active attention and often a purpose.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To watch something very closely and with great anxiety, as if it were milk about to boil over. It implies extreme vigilance and concern.
Depuis que son fils a commencé à conduire, elle le surveille comme le lait sur le feu.
Informal— To keep an eye on someone or something. This is very similar to 'surveiller' and often interchangeable in informal contexts.
Le professeur a l'œil sur tous les élèves pendant l'examen pour éviter la triche.
Neutral/Informal— To not take one's eyes off someone or something; to watch them constantly and without interruption.
Il ne quitte pas son bébé des yeux, même quand il dort.
Neutral— To watch out, to lie in wait, often for a specific event or person. It implies a patient, watchful waiting.
Les gardes faisaient le guet sur les remparts.
NeutralLeicht verwechselbar
Both involve watching, but with different intentions.
'Observer' implies a detached, detailed, and often scientific study of something. You might 'observer' a phenomenon or a behavior to understand it. 'Surveiller', on the other hand, is about watching with a purpose of safety, control, or to ensure something is functioning correctly. You 'surveiller' children to keep them safe, or 'surveiller' a machine to ensure it runs properly.
Le biologiste observe les cellules au microscope (detailed study), tandis que le gardien surveille le bâtiment (safety).
Both imply watching over something.
'Veiller sur' carries a stronger connotation of care, protection, and looking after someone or something vulnerable. It often has an emotional component. 'Surveiller' is more neutral and can apply to inanimate objects or processes as well as people, focusing on vigilance and control.
Elle veille sur son grand-père malade (care and protection), alors que le technicien surveille les paramètres du système (monitoring).
Both relate to maintaining a certain state.
'Contrôler' means to control, manage, or check. It implies active intervention to ensure something is within limits or follows a specific procedure. 'Surveiller' is the act of watching to see if control is needed or if things are proceeding as expected. You 'surveiller' the temperature, but you 'contrôlez' the heating system to keep it at the desired temperature.
Le pilote surveille les instruments (watches them), mais il contrôle les commandes de l'avion (actively manages them).
Can overlap in certain idiomatic expressions.
While 'garder' primarily means 'to keep' or 'to guard', the expression 'garder un œil sur' is very close to 'surveiller', meaning to keep an eye on. However, 'garder' on its own doesn't imply the same level of active vigilance as 'surveiller'. 'Surveiller' is a more direct verb for monitoring and oversight.
Garde un œil sur tes petites sœurs (keep an eye on them), mais le garde du corps surveille le président (monitors for threats).
Both involve oversight.
'Superviser' implies a formal role of management, direction, and oversight, usually in a professional or educational context. It suggests authority and responsibility for the work or actions of others. 'Surveiller' is broader and can be used in less formal situations, focusing more on the act of watching and ensuring safety or proper functioning, often without the same level of authority.
Le directeur supervise le travail de ses employés (formal management), tandis que le parent surveille ses enfants au parc (ensuring safety).
Satzmuster
Subject + surveiller + Object
L'infirmière surveille le patient.
Il faut + surveiller + Object
Il faut surveiller le feu.
Se + surveiller
Elle se surveille pour rester en forme.
Surveiller + que + Clause
Veuillez surveiller que la porte soit fermée.
Auxiliary + surveillé
Nous avons surveillé la réunion.
Surveiller + Adverb
Il surveille attentivement le marché.
Il incombe à + Subject + de + surveiller
Il incombe au responsable de surveiller les employés.
Surveiller + Object + Adjective/Participle
Surveillez le gâteau pendant qu'il cuit.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Common
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Using 'surveiller' for passive looking.
→
Using 'regarder' for passive looking.
Learners often confuse 'surveiller' (to watch actively, monitor) with 'regarder' (to look at). If you are simply watching a movie, you 'regardez' it. If you are actively ensuring the movie player doesn't overheat, you might 'surveillez' it. The intent is crucial.
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Confusing 'surveiller' with 'superviser' in formal contexts.
→
'Superviser' for formal management, 'surveiller' for general oversight/watching.
'Superviser' implies formal authority and management, like a boss overseeing employees. 'Surveiller' is broader and can mean simply watching over someone or something for safety or proper functioning, often without formal authority.
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Incorrect conjugation of the 'nous' form.
→
Nous surveillons.
As a regular -er verb, the 'nous' form of 'surveiller' is 'surveillons'. A common error is to misremember this, perhaps by incorrectly applying patterns from other verb groups.
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Misusing the reflexive form 'se surveiller'.
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'Se surveiller' means to watch oneself (health, behavior).
Learners might incorrectly use 'se surveiller' to mean managing tasks. It specifically refers to self-monitoring related to personal well-being or actions, like 'Il se surveille pour ne pas tomber malade.'
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Using 'surveiller' when 'observer' is more appropriate.
→
'Observer' for detailed, analytical study.
'Observer' implies a more scientific or detailed study, whereas 'surveiller' is about active vigilance for safety or control. You 'observer' a chemical reaction, but you 'surveiller' a patient's vital signs.
Tipps
Regular Verb Conjugation
Remember that 'surveiller' is a regular -er verb. Its conjugation in the present tense is straightforward: je surveille, tu surveilles, il/elle/on surveille, nous surveillons, vous surveillez, ils/elles surveillent. Practice conjugating it in different tenses to build confidence.
Mastering the French 'R'
The guttural 'r' sound in 'surveiller' is crucial for authentic pronunciation. Practice it by trying to clear your throat gently. Listen to native speakers and imitate them.
Distinguish from 'Regarder'
Don't use 'surveiller' for casual looking. If you're just watching TV, you 'regardez'. If you're actively ensuring the TV doesn't overheat or that no one touches it, you might 'surveillez' it. The intent matters.
Cognate Connection
Connect 'surveiller' to the English word 'surveillance'. This cognate highlights the meaning of close watching and monitoring, aiding memorization.
Sentence Building
Create your own sentences using 'surveiller' in various contexts: with children, cooking, technical equipment, or even self-monitoring. This active practice solidifies understanding.
Cultural Nuance of Vigilance
In French culture, vigilance and responsibility are often emphasized. 'Surveiller' reflects this value in everyday life, from parenting to professional duties, so understanding its common applications is key.
Exploring Alternatives
Learn related verbs like 'observer', 'veiller sur', and 'contrôler'. Understanding their subtle differences will help you choose the most precise word for your intended meaning.
Avoid 'Regarder' for Active Watching
A common mistake is using 'regarder' when active vigilance is implied. Remember, 'surveiller' means to watch with purpose, not just to look.
Reflexive Usage
Master the reflexive form 'se surveiller' for contexts where one monitors their own health or behavior. This adds another dimension to your command of the verb.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Imagine a superhero, 'Super-Vigil', who has to 'surveiller' (watch over) the city from a high tower. His name sounds like 'surveiller', and his job is to watch vigilantly.
Visuelle Assoziation
Picture a watchful eye ('œil') placed 'sur' (on) something important, like a treasure chest or a baby, emphasizing the act of watching over.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to use 'surveiller' in three different sentences today, each describing a distinct scenario: one involving children, one involving a process, and one involving self-monitoring.
Wortherkunft
The verb 'surveiller' comes from the Old French 'surveillir', which is a combination of 'sur-' (meaning 'over' or 'upon') and 'veillir' (meaning 'to watch' or 'to be awake'). This etymology directly reflects the meaning of watching over something.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To watch over, to keep awake for, to be vigilant.
Indo-European > Italic > Latin > Romance > FrenchKultureller Kontext
The use of 'surveiller' in contexts like 'surveiller un suspect' or 'surveiller les communications' can carry connotations of suspicion or intrusion. It's important to be aware of the context and potential implications of being 'surveillé'.
In English-speaking cultures, the concept of 'keeping an eye on' or 'monitoring' is equally important, but the specific verb 'surveiller' carries a French nuance of active, responsible oversight that might be expressed through various phrases in English.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Parenting and Childcare
- surveiller les enfants
- surveiller le bébé
- ne pas quitter les enfants des yeux
Kitchen and Cooking
- surveiller la cuisson
- surveiller le four
- ne pas laisser brûler
Security and Safety
- surveiller les entrées
- surveiller les mouvements suspects
- la surveillance du bâtiment
Health and Well-being
- se surveiller
- surveiller son état
- surveiller son alimentation
Professional and Technical
- surveiller le bon fonctionnement
- surveiller la production
- surveiller l'évolution de la situation
Gesprächseinstiege
"Qu'est-ce que vous surveillez le plus attentivement dans votre vie quotidienne ?"
"Comment surveillez-vous la santé de vos proches ?"
"Dans quelles situations est-il essentiel de surveiller attentivement ?"
"Avez-vous déjà eu à surveiller quelque chose de près pour éviter un problème ?"
"Comment les technologies modernes nous aident-elles à surveiller notre environnement ?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Décrivez une situation où vous avez dû surveiller quelque chose ou quelqu'un avec une grande attention. Qu'avez-vous appris de cette expérience ?
Pensez à une fois où vous avez négligé de surveiller quelque chose d'important. Quelles en ont été les conséquences ?
Comment le fait de 'se surveiller' (sa santé, son comportement) peut-il améliorer votre qualité de vie ?
Imaginez un monde où tout est constamment surveillé. Quels seraient les avantages et les inconvénients ?
Racontez une anecdote où le fait de surveiller attentivement a mené à une découverte ou à une solution.
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 Fragen'Regarder' simply means 'to look at' and implies passive observation. You 'regardez' a movie or a painting. 'Surveiller', on the other hand, means to watch over, monitor, or keep an eye on something or someone with a sense of vigilance, responsibility, or purpose. You 'surveillez' children to ensure their safety, or you 'surveillez' a process to make sure it's working correctly. The intention behind the watching is key.
The reflexive form 'se surveiller' means 'to watch oneself'. It is used when the subject is performing the action of watching on themselves. This is typically done in contexts related to health, behavior, or self-care. For example, 'Je me surveille pour ne pas manger trop de sucre' (I am watching myself to avoid eating too much sugar) or 'Il doit se surveiller pour éviter les crises d'angoisse' (He must monitor himself to avoid anxiety attacks).
While safety is a very common context for 'surveiller' (e.g., 'surveiller les enfants'), it's not exclusively about safety. It can also mean to monitor a process ('surveiller la cuisson'), observe data ('surveiller les indicateurs économiques'), or keep track of something's condition ('surveiller l'état de la machine'). The core idea is active, attentive observation with a purpose, which can be safety, efficiency, or understanding.
Yes, absolutely. You can 'surveiller' inanimate objects or abstract concepts. For example, 'Il faut surveiller le bon fonctionnement de l'ordinateur' (You must monitor the computer's proper functioning), or 'Les scientifiques surveillent l'évolution du climat' (Scientists monitor climate change's evolution). The verb implies paying attention to ensure it's operating correctly, progressing as expected, or to detect any changes.
'Observer' implies a more detailed, analytical, and often detached form of watching, usually for study or understanding. For instance, a scientist might 'observer' a reaction under a microscope. 'Surveiller', on the other hand, is more about active vigilance, often with a sense of responsibility for safety, control, or proper functioning. You 'surveillez' a child to keep them safe, or you 'surveillez' a cooking pot to prevent burning.
'Surveiller' is a regular -er verb and uses the auxiliary verb 'avoir' in compound tenses. The past participle is 'surveillé'. So, the passé composé is formed as: j'ai surveillé, tu as surveillé, il/elle/on a surveillé, nous avons surveillé, vous avez surveillé, ils/elles ont surveillé. For example: 'J'ai surveillé les enfants toute la journée.'
This idiom means to watch something very closely and with great anxiety or concern, as if it were milk about to boil over and spill. It implies extreme vigilance and worry about potential problems. For example, a parent might 'surveiller comme le lait sur le feu' their child who is recovering from surgery.
Yes, 'surveiller' can be used in formal contexts, especially in security, technical fields, or when discussing official duties. For example, 'Les autorités sont chargées de surveiller l'application des lois' (The authorities are responsible for monitoring the application of laws). In very formal or managerial contexts, 'superviser' might be preferred for direct oversight of people's work.
The main noun form is 'la surveillance', which means 'surveillance', 'monitoring', or 'oversight'. You might also encounter 'un surveillant' (a male supervisor/monitor) or 'une surveillante' (a female supervisor/monitor), often used in educational or security settings.
While 'surveiller' typically takes a direct object, it can be used with prepositions in certain constructions. For example, 'surveiller que...' introduces a subordinate clause. Also, in phrases like 'surveiller de près', 'de près' acts as an adverbial modifier. It's less common to use 'surveiller' with indirect objects directly referring to people or things being watched, compared to verbs like 'veiller sur'.
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Summary
The verb 'surveiller' signifies active, vigilant observation with a sense of responsibility or purpose, distinguishing it from passive looking ('regarder'). It is crucial in contexts requiring oversight, safety, or control, from parenting to professional monitoring.
- To watch over, monitor, or keep an eye on someone or something.
- Implies active vigilance and responsibility.
- Used in contexts like childcare, security, and technical monitoring.
- Conjugates as a regular -er verb.
Regular Verb Conjugation
Remember that 'surveiller' is a regular -er verb. Its conjugation in the present tense is straightforward: je surveille, tu surveilles, il/elle/on surveille, nous surveillons, vous surveillez, ils/elles surveillent. Practice conjugating it in different tenses to build confidence.
Context is Key
The exact nuance of 'surveiller' depends heavily on the context. Pay attention to who is watching whom, and why, to understand whether it means 'to monitor', 'to guard', 'to watch over', or 'to keep an eye on'.
Mastering the French 'R'
The guttural 'r' sound in 'surveiller' is crucial for authentic pronunciation. Practice it by trying to clear your throat gently. Listen to native speakers and imitate them.
Distinguish from 'Regarder'
Don't use 'surveiller' for casual looking. If you're just watching TV, you 'regardez'. If you're actively ensuring the TV doesn't overheat or that no one touches it, you might 'surveillez' it. The intent matters.
Beispiel
Les parents surveillent leurs enfants qui jouent dans le jardin.
Verwandte Inhalte
Verwandte Redewendungen
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