observe them

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "observe them" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when instructing someone to watch or monitor a group of people or things. Example: "During the experiment, please observe them closely to note any changes in behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I observe them closely.

The New York Times

I observe them with a double vision.

The Guardian - Books

Writer went to Washington to observe them at work.

The New Yorker

I like to observe them on my breaks.

The New York Times

But there is no agreement about how to observe them.

The New York Times - Arts

And this is a prime time for Britain's animals and those who want to observe them.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

My TiVo allows me to contribute to conversations revolving around TV rather than silently observe them.

The New York Times - Tech

But we had our traditions, and Mum made us observe them.

The Guardian - Opinion

He and his staff bring in couples and observe them as they perform various tasks.

The New Yorker

"I can observe them, but I don't know what they're saying," Bernstein said.

The New York Times - Sports

children in a Broadway preview room an observe them while the film is being shown.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In creative writing, use "observe them" to create distance or objectivity, letting the reader draw their own conclusions from the observations.

Common error

While grammatically correct, "observe them" can sound overly formal in casual conversations. Consider using simpler alternatives like "watch them" or "look at them" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "observe them" functions as a verb phrase, where "observe" is a transitive verb and "them" is a pronoun acting as the direct object. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. It instructs someone to watch or monitor a group of people or things.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Science

24%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "observe them" is a grammatically sound and frequently used directive, primarily found in news, scientific, and general contexts. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it instructs someone to watch or monitor a subject, often for the purpose of analysis or information gathering. While versatile, it's advisable to consider the register and choose simpler alternatives like "watch them" in casual conversations. Remember to be specific and well-defined if using it in scientific writing. Top sources like The New York Times and The Guardian showcase its wide applicability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

watch them closely

This alternative emphasizes the act of watching with attention to detail.

monitor them

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

keep an eye on them

This alternative implies a watchful vigilance, often to ensure safety or prevent problems.

scrutinize them

This suggests a critical and detailed examination.

examine them

This alternative implies a formal or scientific investigation.

study them

This suggests a focused and methodical observation for learning or understanding.

pay attention to them

This alternative emphasizes focusing one's awareness on the subject.

take note of them

This suggests making a mental or written record of what is observed.

be mindful of them

This alternative highlights awareness and consideration of their presence or actions.

look at them

This is a more general and less intense form of observation.

FAQs

What can I say instead of "observe them"?

You can use alternatives like "watch them", "monitor them", or "keep an eye on them" depending on the context.

How do I use "observe them" in a sentence?

"Observe them" is typically used to instruct someone to watch or monitor a group of people, animals or objects. For example: "During the experiment, please observe them closely to note any changes in behavior."

Is there a difference between "observe them" and "watch them"?

While both phrases mean to look at someone or something, "observe them" often implies a more formal, systematic, or scientific approach, while "watch them" is more general.

When is it appropriate to use "observe them" instead of other alternatives?

Use "observe them" when you want to emphasize careful, detailed, and potentially analytical viewing. It's suitable for scientific studies, formal reports, or situations where objective observation is important. For casual situations, consider "look at them".