able to observe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to observe" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means that someone has the ability or opportunity to watch or perceive something. Example: The scientist was equipped with high-tech equipment that allowed him to be able to observe the behavior of the rare species of bird in its natural habitat.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You'll be able to observe your desires.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Dr Zhang was able to observe these by illuminating it.

The Economist

Everybody should be able to observe their religion in their own way".

The New York Times

"But in general, from what I've been able to observe, it's been a robust debate".

The New Yorker

How have you been able to observe them doing this in nature?

The New Yorker

It is Horticulture 101, being able to observe the work going on here.

The New York Times

Because of illness, Piazzi was able to observe the object only until February 11.

Britannica

At first Dallis was able to observe and alter obvious aspects of his workmate's actions.

Harvard Business Review

In recent weeks, we've been able to observe a few of them.

The Guardian - Opinion

He was able to observe his subjects at length, to befriend them, to gain their trust.

The Washington Post

The experiment will also be able to observe neutrinos from terrestrial and extra-terrestrial sources.

Nuclear Instruments and Methods in Physics Research Section A: Accelerators, Spectrometers, Detectors and Associated Equipment

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to observe", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being observed and under what conditions. Providing specific details strengthens the clarity of your statement.

Common error

Avoid using "able to observe" when the observation is merely theoretical or speculative. Ensure there is a tangible basis for the capacity to observe, such as appropriate equipment or a clear vantage point.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to observe" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a subject, indicating the subject's capacity or opportunity to perform the action of observing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a grammatically correct and common expression.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Science

33%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "able to observe" is a grammatically correct and very common way to express the capacity or opportunity to witness or perceive something. As Ludwig AI validates, it's widely used in various contexts, including news, science, and academia. While generally neutral in register, it leans toward formal, making it appropriate for professional communication. When using "able to observe", clarity is key: specify what is being observed and the conditions under which the observation takes place. Consider alternatives like "capable of observing" or "in a position to observe" to fine-tune your expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of observing

Replaces "able" with "capable", emphasizing the inherent capacity to observe.

in a position to observe

Highlights the situational aspect of being able to observe, suggesting the right circumstances are present.

have the ability to see

Focuses on the visual aspect of observation.

can perceive

Emphasizes the cognitive act of perceiving, which is a broader form of observation.

in a state to witness

Indicates a condition or situation that allows witnessing an event.

have the opportunity to watch

Stresses the availability of a chance or occasion to observe.

equipped to detect

Focuses on having the necessary tools or capabilities to observe or detect something.

allowed to view

Highlights that someone has been given permission to observe.

in a place to monitor

Highlights being in a specific position to observe, especially with the goal of supervision.

given the means to scrutinize

Indicates that the individual has been given the resources necessary for close and critical observation.

FAQs

How can I use "able to observe" in a sentence?

Use "able to observe" to indicate the capacity or opportunity to witness or perceive something. For instance, "Scientists were "able to observe" the effects of the new drug."

What are some alternatives to "able to observe"?

You can use alternatives such as "capable of observing", "in a position to observe", or "can perceive" depending on the specific context.

Is it better to use "able to observe" or "capable of observing"?

"Able to observe" and "capable of observing" are often interchangeable, but "capable" suggests a more inherent ability, while "able" can refer to situational opportunity.

In what contexts is "able to observe" most appropriate?

"Able to observe" is suitable in various contexts, including scientific research, news reporting, and general descriptions of someone's perceptual capabilities. The specific context should guide the choice of wording, but it's generally appropriate across a wide range of scenarios.