To supervise means to watch over and guide people while they work or complete a task. When a teacher supervises students during recess, she's making sure everyone stays safe and follows the rules. When a construction manager supervises a building project, he's checking that workers do their jobs correctly and that everything stays on schedule.

A supervisor doesn't usually do all the work themselves. Instead, they make sure others have what they need, answer questions, solve problems, and ensure the work meets the right standards.

Supervision means different things in different situations. A lifeguard supervising swimmers stays alert for any signs of trouble. A parent supervising homework might check in occasionally to see if help is needed. A film director supervising a movie shoot makes countless decisions about how each scene should look and feel.

Good supervision requires paying attention, understanding the work being done, and knowing when to help versus when to let people figure things out. When someone asks you to work “under supervision,” it means an experienced person will be nearby to guide you and help make sure things go well.