observes

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'observes' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use the word 'observes' when you want to express that something is being watched carefully. Example: The scientist carefully observed the changes in the plants as the days passed.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Peter Bazalgette, the former chief creative officer at Big Brother's producer, Endemol, observes: "Not only does EastEnders help justify the compulsory licence fee system, because of its popularity with mass audiences, but it looks like it might not be possible in today's climate to create a new soap if EastEnders ever needed to be replaced.

The Guardian

Bret Lunsford observes that nudity has particular power in anti-war demonstrations.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The effect of all this, as Manchester University's Claire Alexander observes, has been to encourage the creation of "closed-down community identities" – and to shift power and money from an openly political, progressive anti-racist politics to older, conservative ethnic politicians – the activist gives way to the community leader.

The Guardian - Opinion

She observes that the outcome of war is usually dictated by inequality, with victors being those that hold the most power.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

During the interview Turner observes: "We're very aware of what we're doing [and] we're aware the mainstream media mocks the art world".

The Guardian - Film

Theo observes that many people remain outraged that the Ugandan authorities not only failed to protect them, but also unjustly blamed the Acholi for supporting the LRA and committed atrocities of their own.

The Guardian

As he observes, a tight-fitting lid will do the trick rather less messily; if you don't have one, seal the dish well with foil before covering.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In the opening scene, a weeping Charlie (Shia LaBeouf) observes his dying mother (Melissa Leo) being taken off life support in a Chicago hospital.

The New York Times

They'll test it in the local Tesco Express, where Tom will pretend to faint while the patient observes from the end of the aisle.

The Guardian

She "observes and listens and finds the character through the work".

The Guardian

"Historically, sustainability and its profit-related opportunities have been thought of as technical problems that belong several levels below the CEO", observes Greg Lavery, chief executive of advisory firm Lavery/Pennell.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "observes", ensure the context clearly indicates whether it refers to visual observation, noting a fact, or making a comment. Choose synonyms like "notes" or "remarks" for better precision.

Common error

Avoid using "observes" repetitively in formal writing. Vary your vocabulary with synonyms such as "detects", "finds", or "ascertains" to maintain reader engagement and demonstrate linguistic versatility.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "observes" is as a third-person singular present tense verb. It typically signifies an action performed by a single subject, indicating they are noticing, watching, or commenting on something. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Formal & Business

17%

Science

17%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "observes" is a grammatically sound and frequently used verb form, primarily functioning to indicate the act of noticing, watching, or commenting. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's often found in news, formal business, and scientific contexts. When writing, it's essential to ensure "observes" accurately conveys your intended meaning and to diversify your vocabulary with synonyms such as "notes", "remarks", or "detects" to avoid overuse. By following these guidelines, you can effectively and precisely incorporate "observes" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

notices

Indicates a simple awareness or perception.

notes

Focuses more on making a written record or taking mental note.

remarks

Implies making a comment or expressing an opinion.

detects

Highlights the act of discovering something not immediately obvious.

watches

Implies a continuous act of looking at something.

mentions

Suggests a brief or casual reference to something.

finds

Emphasizes the act of discovering or ascertaining something.

perceives

Highlights a deeper understanding or interpretation of what is seen.

sees

Suggests direct visual perception.

ascertains

Implies making certain of something through investigation.

FAQs

How can I use "observes" in a sentence?

You can use "observes" to describe someone watching something, noting a fact, or making a comment. For example, "The scientist observes the behavior of the cells under a microscope."

What's the difference between "observes" and "watches"?

"Observes" often implies a more careful and analytical viewing, while "watches" simply suggests looking at something over a period. You carefully "observe" an experiment, while you might casually "watch" TV.

What can I say instead of "observes"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "notes", "remarks", "detects", or "mentions".

Is it correct to use "observes" in formal writing?

Yes, "observes" is suitable for formal writing, especially when referring to careful observation or noting of details. However, ensure it fits the tone and isn't overused; consider synonyms for variety.