an observation on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "an observation on" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to introduce an opinion about a particular topic. For example, "An observation on the current state of the economy is that it has been severely impacted by international trade disputes."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

In both contexts, the observed value x no longer represents an observation on the original variable X, but constitutes an observation on a random variable Y whose distribution (the observed distribution) is a distorted version of the distribution of X (original distribution).

Journal of Statistical Distributions and Applications

(Sally, daughter of Victoria)For one nurse who spoke to the researcher during an observation on a ward, the problem was not only the organisation of care but also the philosophy or purpose of the hospital in relation to the person with dementia.

Ageing and Society

But that's an observation on the quality of its execution, not a self-righteous plea to be left alone.

The Guardian

As such, I have an observation on the lore that evolved around J. D. Salinger's being a recluse.

The New York Times

His last letter, No. 2,869, an observation on the issues shaping the American presidential campaign, was broadcast on Feb. 20.

The New York Times - Arts

Mademoiselle offers an observation on the difference between men and women but Mary doesn't hear it, she is preoccupied trying to plan re-establishing her bond with Iris.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

10 human-written examples

Conceptually, under this model, a diploid organism with an AA genotype would have a signal observation on the A channel and a noise observation on the B channel, and likewise but reversed for a BB genotype.

Bioinformatics

Then one picks it up again and a few minutes later an unexpected observation on human foibles makes one smile again.

The Guardian - Books

Later Bland set up an observation post on a mountain ridge on the outskirts of Kabul, trying to spot Taliban insurgents carrying weapons into the capital.

The Guardian

She follows it up - well within the five minutes - with an elegant observation on a mutual friend.

The Guardian

It may seem an illogical observation on a day when their batting disintegrated, but West Indies' problems stem from the frailty of their bowling attack.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "an observation on" to introduce a thoughtful and considered opinion or insight, especially when commenting on a complex topic. It signals a level of thoughtfulness beyond a simple statement.

Common error

Avoid using "an observation on" in very informal settings where a simpler phrase like "I noticed" or "I think" would be more appropriate. It can sound overly formal or pretentious in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "an observation on" functions primarily as an introductory element to a statement or comment. It sets the stage for a reasoned opinion or insight. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically sound for introducing thoughts. Ludwig examples show its usage in academic papers and news reports.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

48%

Wiki

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "an observation on" is a versatile phrase used to introduce a considered opinion or insight on a particular topic. Ludwig AI validates its grammatical correctness, and Ludwig examples highlight its prevalence in both news and scientific writing. While it's suitable for formal contexts, it should be used judiciously in casual settings. Consider alternatives like "a comment about" or "a remark on" for less formal situations. The phrase's neutral-to-formal register makes it ideal for presenting reasoned perspectives in academic papers, news articles, and professional communications.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a comment about

Replaces "observation" with "comment", focusing on a spoken or written remark.

a remark on

Similar to "comment", but suggests a briefer, more casual expression.

a reflection on

Emphasizes thoughtful consideration and analysis.

an opinion about

Highlights a personal viewpoint or belief regarding a subject.

a thought on

Suggests a brief, often spontaneous idea or consideration.

an assessment of

Focuses on evaluating or judging the qualities of something.

a perspective on

Emphasizes a particular point of view or way of regarding something.

an analysis of

Highlights a detailed examination of the components or structure of something.

a view on

Presents a personal opinion or way of regarding something.

a note on

Suggests a brief, often written record or comment.

FAQs

How can I use "an observation on" in a sentence?

You can use "an observation on" to introduce a thought or comment about a particular subject. For example, "An observation on the economy is that it's recovering slowly".

What are some alternatives to "an observation on"?

Alternatives include phrases like "a comment about", "a remark on", or "a reflection on", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to use "an observation on" or "an observation about"?

Both "an observation on" and "an observation about" are grammatically correct, but "on" is slightly more formal and often used when discussing a topic in depth. "About" might be used for more general comments.

When is it appropriate to use "an observation on" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "an observation on" in formal writing, academic papers, news articles, or any context where you want to present a thoughtful and considered opinion. Avoid using it in very casual or informal settings.