on observing

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on observing" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when introducing a statement or conclusion that is based on what has been seen or noticed. Example: "On observing the behavior of the subjects, the researchers noted significant changes in their responses."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Second order cybernetics is a tool not based on determining the facts on the ground but on observing the observer.

Pastoralism

Learning here needs to focus on observing whether one way of structuring indicators and targets works better than the alternatives in motivating the desired behavior in different contexts.

BMC Health Services Research

10 This finding is based on observing 58 person-year observations for 41 female immigrants from this region.

IZA Journal of Migration

The particular pair used in a recording session depended on observing selectivity for one of the images in the pair.

Cerebral Cortex

Let us consider a one-sided test at level α based on observing X 1, …, X N final.

BMC Medical Research Methodology

Dr. Onishenko ruminated on observing Russians eating raw fish.

The New York Times

He said: "Towie follows the lives of real people and remains impartial on observing their lifestyles.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But it does not give explicit instructions on observing the fast in the far north.

The Guardian

The Austrian style is mainly static, intent on observing (rather than participating).

The Guardian - Film

A huge press entourage accompanied her, intent on observing the spectacle of her first public appearance with Mr. Sharpton.

The New York Times

Outdoors CROTON-ON-HUDSON Croton Point Nature Center "Moths in Black," seminar on observing, attracting and identifying moths.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing in scientific or formal contexts, "on observing" adds a layer of formality and precision, making your analysis seem more methodical. For example, "On observing the data, a clear trend emerges" sounds more robust than "Seeing the data, a trend emerges."

Common error

Avoid using "on observing" when the information isn't visually derived. For example, don't say "On observing the smell..." Use "on noticing" or "on sensing" instead to accurately reflect the means of perception.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "on observing" is as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial modifier. It introduces a circumstance or condition under which the main clause is true, indicating that the action or state described in the main clause follows directly from the act of observing. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a correct and usable phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

47%

News & Media

42%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on observing" is a grammatically correct and frequently used prepositional phrase that establishes a direct link between an observation and a subsequent action or conclusion. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is both correct and usable. It is most commonly found in scientific and news media contexts and is generally considered to have a neutral to formal register. When using this phrase, ensure that the information is visually derived or monitored, and consider alternatives like "upon noticing" or "when seeing" to best fit the intended nuance. Avoid its use with non-visual sensory inputs.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

upon noticing

Similar meaning with a more formal tone.

in observing

Highlights the context of observation.

when seeing

More direct and less formal.

upon perceiving

Emphasizes sensory awareness.

after witnessing

Emphasizes the act of being present during an event.

by noting

Focuses on recording or taking account of something.

while watching

Focuses on the continuous aspect of observing.

based on viewing

Indicates reliance on visual information.

as a result of observation

Highlights observation as the cause.

from monitoring

Focuses on tracking and surveillance.

FAQs

How can I use "on observing" in a sentence?

Use "on observing" to introduce a statement or conclusion based on visual information or a monitored process. For example, "On observing the patient's symptoms, the doctor made a diagnosis."

What are some alternatives to "on observing"?

You can use alternatives like "upon noticing", "when seeing", or "after witnessing" depending on the context.

Is it more appropriate to use "on observing" or "in observing"?

"On observing" is generally used to introduce a consequence or realization, while "in observing" emphasizes the context or method of observation. The choice depends on whether you're highlighting the result or the process.

What's the difference between "on observing" and "by observing"?

"On observing" indicates something that becomes apparent through observation, while "by observing" suggests that observation is the method or means of achieving something. For example, "We learned by observing" versus "On observing the results, we understood the pattern".