they have noticed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "they have noticed" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that a group of people has become aware of something or observed a particular situation. Example: "In the recent meeting, they have noticed a significant improvement in team performance over the last quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

And would they have noticed Anna's overstay?

Independent

Still, other publicists say they have noticed Mr. Hilton's shift.

The New York Times

But even they have noticed the change in consumer tastes.

The Economist

People around town say they have noticed the difference.

The New York Times

They have noticed how the sunlight streaming into the open walkways also creates dark corners.

The New York Times

But in the past few months, some dissidents say they have noticed an easing.

The Economist

Second, they have noticed that money flows as freely as rhetoric.

The Economist

Security researchers have said they have noticed an increase in cyberattacks originating in the region.

The New York Times

Refugees in Sesto San Giovanni say they have noticed the tougher climate in Italy.

The Washington Post

Some sheriffs and police chiefs along Colorado's borders say they have noticed little change.

The New York Times

The groups say they have noticed a surge in support in recent days.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "they have noticed" to introduce an observation made by a specific group, providing context or evidence for a subsequent statement. For example, "Analysts have noticed a decline in sales, indicating a shift in consumer preferences."

Common error

Avoid using "they have noticed" without clearly identifying who 'they' refers to. Ensure the subject is explicitly stated or easily inferred to prevent ambiguity and maintain clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "they have noticed" primarily functions as a reporting verb phrase. It introduces an observation, perception, or awareness identified by a group. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "they have noticed" is a versatile and frequently used phrase for reporting observations and awareness, as confirmed by Ludwig. It is grammatically sound, maintains a neutral tone suitable for various contexts, and is primarily employed in news and media, science, and formal business communications. When using this phrase, ensure that the subject ('they') is clearly defined to avoid ambiguity. Consider related phrases like "they have observed" or "they have identified" to fine-tune the meaning and formality of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

they have observed

Focuses on the act of watching and registering something, suggesting a more deliberate observation.

they have detected

Implies the discovery of something, often subtle or hidden, through careful examination.

they have perceived

Highlights the mental apprehension or understanding of something through the senses.

they have recognized

Emphasizes the identification or acknowledgment of something previously unknown or unclear.

they have seen

A more general term for having visually registered something, lacking the nuance of focused attention.

they have become aware of

Focuses on the process of gaining knowledge or understanding about something.

they have identified

Suggests a formal or official recognition of something.

they have determined

Implies a conclusion reached after investigation or consideration.

they have ascertained

Highlights the process of finding something out for certain, often through inquiry.

it has come to their attention

Indicates that information has been brought to their notice, often passively.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "they have noticed" to sound more formal?

Consider alternatives like "they have observed", "they have ascertained", or "it has come to their attention". The choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you wish to convey. For instance, in formal reports, "they have observed" might be suitable.

Is there a subtle difference in meaning between "they have noticed" and "they have seen"?

"They have noticed" implies a degree of attention or awareness, whereas "they have seen" simply indicates visual perception. If the emphasis is on awareness, "they have noticed" is more appropriate.

When should I use "they have noticed" instead of "they noticed"?

Use "they have noticed" to emphasize that the observation has occurred over a period or is a recent realization. "They noticed" is better when referring to a specific instance or event. The present perfect construction "they have noticed" adds a sense of duration.

What are some common synonyms for "they have noticed" in academic writing?

In academic contexts, stronger synonyms like "they have identified", "they have determined", or "they have ascertained" might be more appropriate. These alternatives add weight and authority to the observation. Consider using "they have identified" when referring to a specific finding.