can observe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "can observe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when indicating the ability to see or notice something, often in a scientific or analytical context. Example: "Through careful study, researchers can observe the effects of climate change on local ecosystems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

OMI can observe the Earth's atmosphere in three observation modes.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

But I believe one can observe learning.

The Guardian

As an incomer I can observe people.

The Guardian

"You can observe his ballets," she said.

The New York Times - Arts

"You can observe a lot by watching".

The Guardian - Sport

One can observe how locals treat one another.

The New York Times - Travel

There workers can observe their offspring's nursery activities via webcam.

The Guardian - Opinion

And so that I can observe George, I do, too.

The New York Times - Magazine

A big enough detector can observe such an interaction.

The New Yorker

In the meantime you can observe his rehearsals.

The New York Times - Arts

This way we can observe how they live their lives.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "can observe" to describe the ability to witness or notice something directly. It's appropriate for both objective reporting and personal reflections.

Common error

While grammatically sound, relying heavily on "can observe" in formal writing can make your text sound stilted. Consider alternatives like "may notice" or "one might discern" to add variety and nuance.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "can observe" functions as a modal verb ("can") combined with a base verb ("observe"). According to Ludwig AI, this construction expresses the ability or possibility to witness, notice, or perceive something. Examples provided by Ludwig show that it is versatile enough to be adapted in both scientific and everyday scenarios.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

40%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "can observe" is grammatically correct and widely applicable, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It functions as a modal verb construction indicating the ability to witness or notice something. Its usage spans from scientific and academic writing to news reporting and general communication, maintaining a neutral to formal tone. While versatile, consider alternatives to avoid repetitive phrasing. The phrase is frequently found in "News & Media" and "Science" contexts. With its clear meaning and consistent usage, "can observe" remains a valuable tool for expressing observational capabilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is able to observe

Emphasizes the ability or capacity to perform the action of observing.

is capable of observing

Highlights the inherent capability or potential to observe something.

has the ability to observe

Focuses on the possession of the skill or power to observe.

can perceive

Implies a deeper level of understanding or awareness than simply seeing.

can discern

Suggests a careful and insightful observation that leads to a distinction or differentiation.

can detect

Emphasizes the act of discovering or noticing something, especially something hidden or subtle.

is in a position to observe

Highlights the specific circumstances that allow for observation.

can witness

Implies being present during an event and observing it directly.

can note

Focuses on recording or making a mental note of what is observed.

may observe

Suggests possibility rather than certainty of observation.

FAQs

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

You can use "can observe" to describe the capability to notice or witness something. For example, "Scientists "can observe" changes in the ecosystem over time."

What can I say instead of "can observe"?

You can use alternatives like "can perceive", "can discern", or "is able to observe" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "can observe" or "can observed"?

"Can observe" is correct. "Observed" is the past participle of the verb, and should not follow "can". The correct form is always the base form of the verb after a modal auxiliary verb.

What's the difference between "can observe" and "may observe"?

"Can observe" indicates the ability to witness something, whereas "may observe" implies a possibility or likelihood of witnessing something. For example, "One "can observe" the moon every night" versus "One "may observe" a shooting star if they are lucky."