original observation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "original observation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a unique or first-hand insight or finding in a particular field or study. Example: "The scientist's original observation led to a groundbreaking discovery in the field of genetics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The third station observes alongside the original observation network if the sources are visible and above the elevation cut-off limit at its location.

Earth, Planets and Space

The proposed association, however, was not independently observed in several subsequent studies, casting doubt on the validity of the original observation 49.

BioEssays

Not an original observation, of course.

The New York Times

This is not an original observation, or a surprising one.

Independent

I'd later learn that this was by no means an original observation.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

This lead to the original observation; Seagulls are loud, aggressive, disorganised, annoying, somewhat alarming, clearly the UKIP of nature.

The Guardian

But it is hardly an original observation to say their wealth is no guarantee that they will be.

The Guardian - Opinion

If he wasn't the most exciting painter, Johnson (1824-1906) wasolidoned one whose mix of corny stereotype and original observation was heavily influenced by 17th-century Dutch genre painting.

The New York Times - Arts

Noting that Roy Hodgson looks a bit like an owl is hardly the most original observation in the world – even Russell sodding Howard spotted it, for goodness sake – but it's nevertheless a correct one.

The Guardian

His books consist of a series of plainly stated statistical observations, in support of deceptively modest conclusions, and the evidence in support of his original observation is now so overwhelming that the Flynn effect has moved from theory to fact.

The New Yorker

The former, I'll grant, is not exactly an original observation.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing scientific research, use "original observation" to emphasize that a finding is new and hasn't been previously reported. For example, "The study's "original observation" challenged existing theories."

Common error

Avoid using "original observation" simply to mean 'an observation'. Ensure it truly represents a novel finding, not just a restatement of existing knowledge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "original observation" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It identifies a specific observation that is new or unique, contributing to the overall meaning by highlighting its novelty. As Ludwig indicates, this phrase is commonly used.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

70%

News & Media

20%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "original observation" is a grammatically sound noun phrase used to denote a new or unique finding, primarily in scientific and news contexts. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability. While alternatives like "initial finding" or "novel discovery" exist, "original observation" specifically emphasizes the novelty of the insight. A key point is to ensure that what is described as an "original observation" truly represents a new contribution, and not simply a restatement of existing ideas. The frequency of use is uncommon, but Ludwig highlights its importance in academic and technical writing. Ultimately, the phrase adds precision and weight when discussing novel research or insights.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

initial finding

Emphasizes the temporal aspect of the observation, highlighting it as the first result.

novel discovery

Focuses on the innovative and groundbreaking aspect of the observation.

groundbreaking insight

Highlights the significant understanding gained from the observation.

firsthand account

Stresses the direct and personal nature of the observation.

primary detection

Emphasizes the act of initially noticing or identifying something.

seminal observation

Highlights the observation's lasting influence and importance.

pioneering study

Highlights that it's the first of a kind and will open the road for more.

unprecedented finding

Highlights the singularity and uniqueness of the finding.

key observation

It highlights the important character of the observation.

initial detection

It emphasizes the act of initially noticing or identifying something for the first time.

FAQs

How can I use "original observation" in a sentence?

You can use "original observation" to highlight a new finding or insight. For example, "The researcher's "original observation" /s/led+to a groundbreaking discovery" or "This is an "original observation" that challenges conventional wisdom".

What are some alternatives to "original observation"?

Alternatives include "initial finding", "novel discovery", or "groundbreaking insight", depending on the context.

Is "original observation" formal or informal language?

"Original observation" is generally considered neutral to formal, suitable for academic, scientific, and professional contexts. Its formality depends on the context of the writing.

What makes an observation "original"?

An observation is considered "original" if it presents new information or insight that has not been previously reported or recognized in a particular field of study. It's not simply any observation, but a novel or unique one.