keen to observe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "keen to observe" is a valid and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to indicate a great interest in or enthusiasm for observing or noticing something. For example: She was keen to observe how the plants respond to the different watering methods.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I'd learned to associate it with a kind of elitism and wealth I was not keen to observe up close.

The New York Times

I was particularly keen to observe a VSLA group in action in Katine, having recently seen different models of community finance in Asia.

The Guardian

He's not a man who expresses himself in speech, but there seems to be lots of intensity there, so I'd be keen to observe him close-up for a while.

The New York Times

On the one hand he was keen to observe the rules of the establishment, teaching at various private schools after a privileged education in London and Sherborne, and studying at Oxford; on the other he was defiantly left-leaning and sympathetic to the rebellious spirit of English modernism.

The Guardian - Books

Before the game, England captain Conor Coady had said this final brought together the two best Under-17 sides in Europe, and, keen to observe the latest players to emerge from Spain's seemingly never-ending conveyor belt of talent, the Spanish senior squad were in the crowd to support their youngsters, many of them having played in this championship over the years.

Independent

The Germans were keen to observe the effects of civilian bombings and the deliberate burning of the city.

Wikipedia

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

Yet in showing its commitment to the democratic process, it has often seemed keener to observe the formal rites than to bring about real change.As in the past, one reason for staying in the game is that the NDP's tactics, in effect, strengthen the Brotherhood's voting clout.

The Economist

Moreover, it has been observed even in the absence of other group members, some individuals are still keen to maintain the trend and confirm others' opinions [25].

Open Geospatial Data, Software and Standards

He seems keen to keep selling handsets.

The Economist

I was keen to find out.

The Economist

Moyes pronounced himself "keen to keep Landon," judged Donovan "keen to stay" and concluded that "all parties are keen".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keen to observe" when you want to express genuine enthusiasm or interest in noticing or watching something closely. It implies a proactive and engaged form of observation.

Common error

While "keen to observe" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in highly formal or academic writing. Opt for more sophisticated synonyms like "intent on monitoring" or "disposed to observe" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keen to observe" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a subject, indicating their eagerness or willingness to watch and learn. Ludwig confirms its validity and usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

57%

Science

29%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keen to observe" is a valid and usable phrase expressing enthusiasm for watching and noticing details. Ludwig AI confirms this with real-world examples from news, science, and wiki sources. While grammatically correct, it's important to consider the context. News & Media is the most frequent category. When writing, be aware of the need for more formal alternatives in academic settings. Also, remember that synonyms like "eager to watch" and "interested in observing" offer subtle differences in nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eager to watch

Focuses on the willingness and enthusiasm to visually experience something.

interested in observing

Highlights the curiosity and interest in the act of observation.

anxious to see

Emphasizes anticipation and eagerness related to a future observation.

intent on watching

Indicates a determined focus on the act of observing.

desirous of observing

A more formal way to express a strong wish to observe.

enthusiastic about watching

Highlights excitement and positive feelings linked to observing.

wanting to monitor closely

Emphasizes careful and continuous observation.

keen on monitoring

Expresses interest in keeping track of something over time

disposed to observe

Indicates a natural inclination or readiness to observe.

inclined to watch

Suggests a tendency or willingness to observe.

FAQs

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

You can use "keen to observe" to express a strong interest in watching or noticing something, like: "She was "keen to observe" the effects of the experiment".

What are some alternatives to "keen to observe"?

You can use alternatives like "eager to watch", "interested in observing", or "anxious to see" depending on the context.

Is "keen to observe" formal or informal?

"Keen to observe" falls in the neutral to slightly formal register. While acceptable in most contexts, more formal alternatives like "disposed to observe" may be preferred in academic or professional writing.

What is the difference between "keen to observe" and "interested in observing"?

While similar, "keen to observe" implies a stronger sense of enthusiasm and proactive engagement compared to "interested in observing", which simply indicates curiosity.