Meaning and Usage
The word 監視 (かんし) means "observation," "guarding," or "surveillance." It is often used in contexts involving watching or monitoring people, places, or activities to ensure safety, security, or compliance.
Common Contexts
You will frequently encounter 監視 in security-related situations, such as police surveillance, security cameras, or monitoring systems. It can also apply to monitoring behavior, such as a company overseeing employee activities.
Collocations and Patterns
- 監視カメラ (かんしカメラ): surveillance camera, used to watch an area continuously.
- 監視する: to monitor or watch closely.
- 監視下に置く (かんしかにおく): to place under surveillance or supervision.
Register and Nuance
監視 is a formal and somewhat serious term, often used in official or technical contexts. It implies careful and continuous watching, sometimes with a sense of control or restriction.
Common Learner Mistake
Learners sometimes confuse 監視 with 観察 (かんさつ), which also means "observation." However, 観察 is more neutral and scientific, focusing on watching to understand, while 監視 implies guarding or controlling.
Use 監視 when emphasizing security or control aspects.