has been observing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "has been observing" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to a situation that started in the past and is still happening or continuing up to the present. For example, "The scientist has been observing the data for the past five years."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His strength was always playing the observational-comedy card and what he has been observing is married life.

The New York Times - Arts

Armed Basque separatist group Eta received only modest attention from the Madrid press for its call for "informal" international observers to validate the ceasefire it has been observing.

The Guardian

Stanislava Novgorodtseva has been observing Crimea transform since her childhood.

The Washington Post

Mr. Lao has been observing his Goldman clientele with interest.

The New York Times

The I.R.A. itself has been observing a cease-fire for 13 months.

The New York Times

Since last fall, North Korea has been observing a moratorium on long-range missile tests.

The New York Times

She has been observing the growth of BASIS schools for years.

The Washington Post

In the past month, the cartel has been observing only 80% of previous quota cuts.

The Economist

The worst has been observing the gradual destruction of hope and the encroachment of despair.

The New York Times

Over the past few months, the team has been observing a growth in its Bias and Misrepresentation category.

Columbia University

Ms. Denis, having been entranced by the life she has been observing, ultimately wants to disavow its mystique.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "has been observing" to describe ongoing or repeated observations over a period of time, emphasizing the duration of the activity.

Common error

Avoid using "has been observing" when referring to a single, completed observation in the past. Use the simple past tense "observed" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "has been observing" functions as a present perfect continuous verb phrase. It describes an action that started in the past and continues into the present, emphasizing the duration and ongoing nature of the observation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

23%

Academia

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "has been observing" functions as a present perfect continuous verb phrase, indicating an action that began in the past and continues to the present. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, scientific, and academic contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates the period of observation and what is being observed. The use of alternatives such as "has been watching" or "has been monitoring" may be appropriate depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

has been watching

This alternative is a more general term for observing, implying a passive form of observation.

has been monitoring

This alternative suggests a more systematic and regular observation, often for a specific purpose.

has been tracking

Implies following the progress or movement of something closely over time.

has been studying

This suggests a more in-depth and analytical form of observation, often for academic or scientific purposes.

has been analyzing

This highlights the interpretation and evaluation aspect of observing.

has been inspecting

Indicates a close and careful examination, often for flaws or defects.

has kept an eye on

An idiomatic expression indicating vigilance and attentiveness in observing.

has been surveying

Implies a broad and comprehensive observation of a wide area or range of subjects.

has been reviewing

Suggests a formal assessment or evaluation based on observation.

has been scrutinizing

Implies a very careful and critical observation, looking for details that might be missed.

FAQs

How do I use "has been observing" in a sentence?

Use "has been observing" to indicate an action that started in the past and continues into the present. For example, "The scientist "has been observing" the experiment for several weeks."

What are some alternatives to "has been observing"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "has been watching", "has been monitoring", or "has been studying".

When should I use "has been observing" instead of "observed"?

Use "observed" for a completed action in the past. Use ""has been observing"" to describe an action that began in the past and is still ongoing.

What's the difference between "has been observing" and "has observed"?

"Has been observing" indicates a continuous action over a period, while "has observed" implies a completed action with current relevance or impact.