as observers

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as observers" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to individuals who are watching or monitoring a situation without actively participating in it. Example: "We gathered in the conference room, as observers, to witness the presentation on the new project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

To ensure a fairly large number of observations, the farmers were employed as observers.

Acta Veterinaria Scandinavica

We are not just here as observers".

The New York Times

An Experimental Study of children as Observers, Am.

Cornell University

Some of the contingent worked as observers overseeing recounts.

The New York Times

"As observers, they don't do the work of the world.

The New Yorker

"We were there basically as observers," Mr. Zuniga said.

The New York Times

If reduced to "B" status, they participate as observers.

The Guardian

Now they are targets as well as observers.

The Economist

"The U.S. will be here just as observers.

The Washington Post

The models are studied for the purpose of implementing them in control related procedures, such as observers.

Chemical Engineering Science

But, at least in a democracy, ordinary citizens are actors as well as observers.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as observers" to clearly indicate a non-participatory role, emphasizing the act of watching and gathering information without direct intervention.

Common error

Avoid using "as observers" when the individuals involved actually have some degree of influence or interaction within the situation. This can create confusion and misrepresent their role.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as observers" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. It describes the role or capacity in which someone is acting, indicating a non-participatory, observational stance. This is supported by Ludwig, which provides numerous examples of this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

36%

Academia

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "as observers" is a common and grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to define a non-participatory role. As Ludwig AI confirms, its function is to specify the capacity in which someone is acting, emphasizing observation and information gathering. It appears most frequently in "News & Media" and scientific contexts, indicating a neutral to professional register. When using "as observers", ensure it accurately reflects a non-influential, purely observational role. Avoid its misuse by not implying influence when individuals are present. Alternatives such as "in a watching capacity" or "acting as monitors" can be used for slight variations in meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in a watching capacity

This alternative emphasizes the role of watching or observing.

in an observational role

This phrase highlights the role of observing, similar to the original phrase.

serving as watchers

This emphasizes the act of watching and monitoring.

acting as monitors

This alternative highlights the function of monitoring or keeping track of something.

functioning as onlookers

This phrase suggests a more passive role, simply watching without involvement.

remaining as spectators

This option emphasizes that the individuals are merely watching, like at a sporting event.

as passive participants

This phrase contrasts with active involvement, emphasizing the lack of direct action.

in a non-participatory manner

This alternative highlights the absence of active involvement.

with an objective viewpoint

This highlights that the observation is impartial and unbiased.

from an external perspective

This emphasizes the position outside of the situation being observed.

FAQs

How can I use "as observers" in a sentence?

You can use "as observers" to describe a role where someone is present to watch and monitor a situation without actively participating. For example, "We attended the meeting "as observers" to understand the project's progress".

What phrases are similar to "as observers"?

Similar phrases include "in a watching capacity", "in an observational role", or "serving as watchers", all conveying the idea of observing without active participation.

Is it correct to say "as observers" or "like observers"?

"As observers" is generally more appropriate when describing a formal or defined role. "Like observers" is suitable for more informal comparisons. For instance, "They acted "as observers"" is more formal than "They were quiet, like observers".

In what situations is "as observers" most appropriate?

The phrase "as observers" is appropriate in situations where individuals are intentionally present to monitor, learn, or witness events without intervening directly. This is often the case in research studies, political monitoring, or training exercises.