observe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "observe" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when you want to indicate that someone should watch or notice something carefully. Example: "As you walk through the museum, please observe the intricate details of each painting."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"[They] permit us to observe the diurnal, nocturnal, and discreet species difficult to [find through] direct observation like lesula, Congo peafowl, elephants and also dangerous species like leopard.

The Guardian

While Aaron Swartz didn't live to see it, those who knew him, such as David Segal, the executive director of US organisation Demand Progress, say they have little doubt he would be "on the front lines fighting against a world in which governments observe, collect, and analyze our every digital action".

The Guardian - Tech

You can also observe the colonies of penguins, albatrosses and elephant seals that occupy the islands.

The Guardian - Travel

Even before his election in a largely forgotten interview with the youth magazine Chelcheragh, then presidential hopeful Rouhani hinted that even those who don't observe the Islamic veil in the "desired way" can be good people.

The Guardian

When they observe happy children with complex needs who appear to behave and look well treated, do inspectors whack out generous "outstanding" judgments as a way of rewarding the school for relieving society of its guilt about what to do with disabled children, rather than basing the grading on whether students are being fully extended to learn?

The Guardian

But frankly, in order to maintain [the friendship], he has to observe some minimum rules".

The Guardian

The Football League chief executive, Shaun Harvey, said: "Having seen it used in the recent World Cup, the introduction of vanishing spray into the Johnstone's Paint Trophy will give us the opportunity to observe its use in domestic football so that we can better understand its effect on the flow of the game".

The Guardian - Sport

So, anyway, if all Mischel had done was merely observe these links, we wouldn't be sitting here today.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That is a rule which Labour must observe during the early arguments about the introduction of private companies into the health and education services.

The Guardian

"[I'm] preparing for the next chapter and having the time to observe what's going on in the industry.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

They will, however, still be required to promise to uphold Scout values, observe its law, do their duty to the Queen and help others.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In formal contexts like legal or business documents, "observe" can imply adhering to rules or regulations. Example: "All employees must observe the company's code of conduct."

Common error

Don't use "observe" when a simple "see" or "notice" will do. "Observe" suggests a more intentional and analytical viewing, not just a casual glance. For example, avoid saying "I observed a bird in the park" if you just happened to see it. Instead, use "I saw a bird in the park".

Linguistic Context

The word "observe" primarily functions as a verb. According to Ludwig, it indicates noticing something, following a rule, or making a comment. It is used to describe a careful examination or adherence to a standard.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

64%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "observe" is a versatile verb with meanings ranging from careful watching to compliance with rules, commonly appearing in news, formal, and scientific contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. To use "observe" effectively, ensure that you're conveying intentional examination rather than casual seeing and consider alternatives like "take note of" or "adhere to" depending on the specific meaning you intend to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notice

This is a more general term for becoming aware of something.

take note of

This alternative suggests a more deliberate act of recording or remembering something.

pay attention to

This emphasizes focusing one's mental efforts on something.

watch closely

This highlights the visual aspect of observation, implying careful attention.

keep an eye on

This implies monitoring something for changes or potential problems.

behold

This alternative offers a more literary or dramatic way to describe seeing something.

detect

This word is applicable when discovering something not easily noticeable.

adhere to

This alternative highlights complying with rules or customs.

comply with

This emphasizes obedience to regulations or standards.

celebrate

This suggests marking a special occasion or tradition.

FAQs

How can I use "observe" in a sentence?

The word "observe" is typically used to describe the act of watching something carefully, following a rule, or making a comment. For example, "Scientists observe the behavior of animals in their natural habitat" or "Please observe all traffic laws".

What words can I use instead of "observe" when describing careful watching?

When you want to describe careful watching, you can use alternatives like "monitor", "scrutinize", or "examine". Each of these words implies a different level of detail and purpose in the observation.

Is there a difference between "observe" and "see"?

"See" is a general term for visual perception, while "observe" implies a more focused and intentional act of watching. You might "see" a bird, but you "observe" its behavior to study it.

When is it appropriate to use "observe" to mean "follow" or "obey"?

You can use "observe" to mean "follow" or "obey" when referring to rules, laws, or customs. For example, "Citizens are expected to observe the laws of the land." It's similar to saying "adhere to" or "comply with".