close observation

USAGE SUMMARY

"close observation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to express someone paying very close attention to something or someone. For example, "The researcher conducted close observation of the animal's behavior in the wild."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Arts

Books

Health

Sport

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"My middle name is close observation," she said.

The New York Times

Close observation yields a few paragraphs of material.

The New York Times - Books

The activity encourages close observation and active imagination.

The New York Times - Tech

Both are resplendent examples of civic pride and close observation.

The New York Times - Arts

Latvia's election in the autumn will come under close observation.

The Economist

Both books, I anticipate, will relate dazzling close observation to the larger politics of the environment.

The Guardian - Books

She has been placed under close observation for 21 days, Ebola's incubation period.

The Guardian

It said one of those in hospital was under close observation.

The Guardian - Sport

The book was done intuitively, and only out of close observation.

The Guardian - Books

Not only this, but they all have the capacity and discipline for close observation.

The New York Times - Books

In architecture, as in power companies, their eating habits deserve close observation.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close observation" in scientific writing, specify the methodology or tools used to ensure the observation is rigorous and replicable.

Common error

Avoid claiming profound insights solely from "close observation" without sufficient evidence or analysis. Link observations to broader frameworks or validated data to support claims.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close observation" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where 'close' modifies 'observation'. It denotes the act of carefully and attentively watching or examining something. Ludwig's examples confirm its common usage in various contexts to describe detailed scrutiny.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Science

30%

Books

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close observation" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase indicating careful and detailed scrutiny. As affirmed by Ludwig, it enjoys widespread usage across diverse domains, including news, science, and literature. While alternatives like "careful scrutiny" and "detailed examination" exist, "close observation" maintains a neutral-to-formal register, rendering it suitable for various writing styles. To maximize impact, ensure that claims derived from "close observation" are substantiated with robust evidence and analyses.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

careful scrutiny

This alternative emphasizes thoroughness and attention to detail.

detailed examination

This phrase highlights the depth and thoroughness of the investigation.

thorough inspection

This suggests a systematic and comprehensive review.

keen awareness

This focuses on a sharp and perceptive understanding.

diligent monitoring

This implies ongoing and careful tracking.

attentive surveillance

This suggests careful watching, often for a specific purpose.

rigorous analysis

This highlights the critical and analytical nature of the observation.

meticulous assessment

This stresses precision and thoroughness in evaluation.

vigilant watch

This implies a watchful and alert state of observation.

critical evaluation

This emphasizes the judgmental and analytical aspects of observation.

FAQs

How can I use "close observation" in a sentence?

You can use "close observation" to describe careful and detailed attention to someone or something. For example, "The scientist's "close observation" of the cell revealed a new structure".

What are some alternatives to "close observation"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "careful scrutiny", "detailed examination", or "thorough inspection".

When is it appropriate to use "close observation" in writing?

"Close observation" is suitable when you want to emphasize the importance of detailed and careful attention. It's commonly used in scientific, medical, and analytical contexts.

Is "close observation" a formal or informal phrase?

"Close observation" is generally considered a neutral to formal phrase, suitable for academic, professional, and journalistic writing. It avoids colloquialisms and maintains a professional tone.