Word
watchdog
Phoneticswatch·dog, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈwɑtʃˌdɔɡ/
UK/wˈɒtʃdɒɡ/
Countable noun
Definition
n. an organization or person that makes sure companies or governments follow the rules. They protect the public by reporting any bad behavior or mistakes.
n. an independent person or body established to monitor and control the activities of a particular industry or government department. Often tasked with protecting consumer interests and ensuring legal compliance.
Examples
“The consumer watchdog is investigating the bank's high fees.”
“The government established an independent watchdog to monitor the environmental impact of the new mining project.”
“Without a robust media watchdog to hold powerful figures accountable, the risk of systemic corruption and the erosion of public trust increases significantly.”
Examples
simple
“The consumer watchdog is investigating the bank's high fees.”
contextual
“The government established an independent watchdog to monitor the environmental impact of the new mining project.”
complex
“Without a robust media watchdog to hold powerful figures accountable, the risk of systemic corruption and the erosion of public trust increases significantly.”
Usage
Often used in the phrase 'watchdog group' or 'watchdog agency'.
Real-World Examples
“It could be hundreds of years before habitats destroyed by wildfires in Wales recover, an environment watchdog has said.” “Parliament's standards watchdog has not confirmed whether it is investigating this, but Farage has said there was "no wrongdoing" , he followed the rules, and he is considering legal action against the paper.” Etymology
From watch + dog.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Domains
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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QR code
englishreference.com/q/watchdog