closely watched

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "closely watched" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something or someone that is being monitored or observed with great attention. Example: "The experiment was closely watched by the researchers to ensure accurate results."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

These will be closely watched.

The Economist

Still, he was closely watched.

The New York Times

Foreign journalists are closely watched.

The Economist

Others are less closely watched.

The Economist

They just need to be closely watched.

The New York Times

His performance will be closely watched.

Independent

"We are closely watched," he said.

The New Yorker

Mr Vaxevanis's trial will be closely watched.

The Economist

Mr. Nashiri's case is being closely watched.

The New York Times

The government's efforts will be closely watched.

The New York Times

The vote was closely watched in Washington.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider stronger verbs like 'scrutinized' or 'monitored' for more specific nuance. The context should drive whether you choose "closely watched" or a stronger alternative.

Common error

Avoid using "closely watched" when the situation implies a more casual or less intensive level of observation. For instance, saying "The sunset was closely watched" might be an overstatement unless there's a specific, scientific reason for the intense focus.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closely watched" primarily functions as a passive adjective phrase, modifying a noun by indicating that it is the recipient of careful observation. As shown by Ludwig, it signifies something or someone being monitored with great attention.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "closely watched" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe careful observation or monitoring. As Ludwig AI confirms, its passive construction highlights the object or subject being observed, rather than the observer. Predominantly found in News & Media, this phrase serves to emphasize the importance of monitoring, often indicating potential risks or significant consequences. When employing "closely watched", consider its intensity and explore alternatives like "carefully monitored" or "keenly scrutinized" for greater precision.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

closely monitored

Similar to "carefully monitored", but places more emphasis on ongoing tracking.

carefully monitored

Focuses on the systematic and controlled aspect of observation, implying a planned approach.

carefully observed

Focuses on the precision and attention to detail in the act of watching.

under close observation

A more formal way of saying "closely watched", often used in clinical or scientific contexts.

attentively observed

Emphasizes the focus and attention given during the observation process.

vigilantly supervised

Highlights the protective aspect of the observation, suggesting a need to prevent something negative.

strictly supervised

Suggests a more authoritative and controlled form of monitoring, often with rules and regulations.

keenly scrutinized

Indicates a detailed and critical examination, often looking for flaws or discrepancies.

intensively tracked

Highlights the detailed and persistent nature of the monitoring effort.

under scrutiny

Focuses on the critical and potentially judgmental aspect of being watched.

FAQs

How can I use "closely watched" in a sentence?

"Closely watched" is used to describe something or someone that is being monitored with great attention. For example, "The experiment was "closely watched" by the researchers."

What are some alternatives to "closely watched"?

Alternatives include "carefully monitored", "attentively observed", or "keenly scrutinized", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say 'closely watch' instead of "closely watched"?

No, "closely watch" is grammatically incorrect in most contexts where you'd use "closely watched". "Closely watched" is a passive construction, while "closely watch" would require a subject performing the action.

What is the difference between "closely watched" and "closely guarded"?

"Closely watched" implies observation, while "closely guarded" suggests protection or defense. Something "closely guarded" is protected from access, while something "closely watched" is simply being carefully observed.