keenly observe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'keenly observe' is correct and usable in written English.
It means to watch or look at something carefully and attentively. Example sentence: The student keenly observed the teacher's instructions and took notes.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

While serious racing enthusiasts keenly observe sectional timing, or split times between furlongs,  "it's not in the culture of horse racing to focus on times," says Dr Hieke Brown, a lecturer in equine science and thoroughbred management at Oxford Brookes University.

BBC

"This context largely shaped our experience and led us to more keenly observe our relationships with the women who have come through the program," Rachel Stern, one of the grads, told VICE.

Vice

There was a lot of pressure upon the Secretariat for the smooth performance of these Games, as the IOA would keenly observe the Afro-Asian Games, in preparation for the 2010 Commonwealth Games at Delhi, India.

Wikipedia

Also, officials from Beijing, China - the venue of 2008 Summer Olympics - and Doha, Qatar - the host of 2006 Asian Games - would attend the Afro-Asian Games, and keenly observe the way the Games functioned.

Wikipedia

Each member of the research team was required to keenly observe the context of the study population and note down salient features.

Conflict and Health

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

For one thing, it's brilliantly, keenly observed.

The Guardian - Music

The easygoing, keenly observed dialogue occasionally strikes a strained note.

The New York Times

Ms. Abramovic, 56, keenly observed what was going on around her during her performance.

The New York Times - Arts

Two inexplicable tragedies leave a tight-knit family reeling in Winthrop's keenly observed third novel.

The New York Times - Books

She was a master of linguistic lucidity and the keenly observed, often epiphanic detail.

The New York Times - Arts

He embraced everything from ancient mythology and epic poetry to the keenly observed forces of nature.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "keenly observe" when you want to emphasize the intensity and attentiveness of the observation. This phrase suggests a deliberate and focused approach.

Common error

Avoid using "keenly observe" in very casual settings. Simpler alternatives like "watch closely" or "pay attention" might be more appropriate for informal conversations or writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "keenly observe" primarily functions as a verb phrase. According to Ludwig AI, it indicates watching or looking at something with care and attention. Examples show it used to describe researchers observing animal behavior or officials observing games.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "keenly observe" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that means to watch or look at something carefully and attentively. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and while examples are relatively rare, the phrase appears in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. It is most frequently used in news and media contexts, and serves to emphasize focused and deliberate observation. Consider using it when you want to convey the intensity and attentiveness of the observation but also consider some good alternatives like "observe closely" or "watch attentively" depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

observe closely

This alternative maintains a similar level of formality while emphasizing the proximity of observation.

watch attentively

This focuses on the act of watching with great attention and engagement.

scrutinize carefully

Implies a more critical and detailed examination.

monitor closely

Suggests a regular and systematic observation, often for a specific purpose.

pay close attention

Shifts the focus to the act of giving attention during observation.

keep a close watch

Suggests vigilance and alertness in observation.

note carefully

Emphasizes the recording or remembering aspect of observation.

study intently

Implies a focused and purposeful observation, often for learning.

observe with interest

Highlights the observer's engagement and curiosity.

take careful note

Suggests a deliberate and meticulous recording of observations.

FAQs

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

You can use "keenly observe" to describe someone paying close attention to something. For instance, "Researchers "keenly observe" the behavior of animals in their natural habitat".

What are some alternatives to "keenly observe"?

You can use alternatives like "watch attentively", "observe closely", or "monitor closely" depending on the specific context.

Is it more correct to say "keenly observe" or "keenly observed"?

"Keenly observe" is a verb phrase used to describe the act of observing, while "keenly observed" is a passive construction, often used to describe something that is being watched closely. Choose the one that fits the grammatical structure of your sentence.

What's the difference between "keenly observe" and "carefully observe"?

"Keenly" implies a more intense level of attention and interest than "carefully". While both suggest attentiveness, ""keenly observe"" suggests a deeper engagement and perhaps a stronger motivation to understand what is being observed, whereas "carefully observe" focuses more on accuracy and precision.