being observed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being observed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone or something is under observation or scrutiny. Example: "The experiment was conducted in a controlled environment, with the subjects being observed closely by the researchers."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Forget formal observations, you're being observed by up to 30 pupils every lesson.

The Guardian

Dickey observes while he is being observed.

The New York Times

The moment you walk in the door, you're being observed.

The New York Times

You talk differently when you are being observed.

The New York Times

Densmore is bizarrely jumpy, unfree, concerned with being observed.

The New Yorker

With a similar situation being observed in the US.

The Guardian

Poets spend their time observing, not being observed.

The Guardian - Books

Some of those changes are already being observed.

The New Yorker

Extraordinary phenomena are already being observed in inland urban areas in winter months.

The Guardian

Imagine you are being observed from all angles and are supposed to weep freely.

The Guardian - Opinion

Some 1.6 million Medicare beneficiaries were being "observed" nationally as of 2011.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When implying a sense of unease or discomfort due to being watched, "being observed" can effectively convey that feeling.

Common error

Avoid using "being observed" when a different tense is more appropriate. For example, instead of "He being observed the experiment", use "He observed the experiment".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being observed" functions as a passive construction, indicating that the subject is receiving the action of observation. As shown by Ludwig, it is commonly used to describe situations where something or someone is under scrutiny or surveillance.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

61%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "being observed" is a grammatically correct and frequently used passive construction that indicates a state of surveillance or monitoring. Ludwig's analysis reveals that it's most commonly found in news and media contexts, with significant usage in scientific and formal writing. The phrase is considered reliable and acceptable for both formal and informal communication, making it a versatile tool for expressing the idea of being watched or scrutinized. Remember to use it in contexts where the subject is capable of being observed and to choose alternative tenses when more appropriate. Furthermore, it is supported by Ludwig AI as correct and usable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

being watched

A more general and less formal way of saying "being observed".

kept under observation

Similar to "being watched", but slightly more formal.

under surveillance

Implies a more formal or investigative context.

under scrutiny

Suggests a critical and detailed examination.

under examination

Implies a detailed and methodical investigation.

subject to observation

More formal and often used in scientific or academic contexts.

monitored

Implies continuous tracking and recording.

under inspection

Suggests an evaluation or assessment is taking place.

kept under watch

Implies careful supervision, often for security reasons.

subject to review

Suggests that something is being assessed for approval or improvement.

FAQs

How can I use "being observed" in a sentence?

The phrase "being observed" indicates that someone or something is in the process of being watched or monitored. For example, "The patient is "being observed" for any changes in their condition".

What is a synonym for "being observed"?

Synonyms for "being observed" include "being watched", "under surveillance", or "being monitored". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "being observed by"?

Yes, "being observed by" is a grammatically correct construction. For example, "The stars are "being observed by" astronomers".

What's the difference between "being observed" and "observing"?

"Being observed" implies that you are the object of someone else's observation, while "observing" means you are the one doing the watching or monitoring. For example, "The students are "being observed" during the exam", versus "The teacher is "observing" the students during the exam".