to be observed

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to be observed" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating that something should be noted or taken into account, often in formal or academic contexts. Example: "The results of the experiment are significant and should be to be observed in future studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Harvey the observer in turn allowed herself to be observed during the recording process, at an Artangel installation last year.

The Guardian - Music

These have to be observed.

The Guardian

There are other considerations to be observed.

Independent

Its lower extension remains to be observed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

She sat in the balcony, hoping not to be observed.

The New York Times - Books

Clearly this is the first such fight to be observed.

The Guardian - Books

No fighter likes to be observed when he is losing.

The New Yorker

Emerson said that "nature does not like to be observed".

The New Yorker

Watching caloric and fat intake was to be observed.

The New York Times - Science

"Nature never likes to be observed," Walter said.

The New Yorker

It's more fun to observe than to be observed.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "to be observed" when you want to emphasize the importance of noting or paying attention to something, whether it's a trend, a rule, or a phenomenon.

Common error

Avoid using "to be observed" in casual conversation or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like 'to note' or 'to watch' to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to be observed" primarily functions as part of an infinitive construction, often indicating something that needs attention, scrutiny, or adherence. As Ludwig AI points out, this phrase is versatile, appearing in contexts that range from noting trends to following regulations. The Ludwig AI examples show its use across various domains, confirming its grammatical correctness.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

32%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to be observed" is a grammatically sound and commonly used infinitive construction that indicates the necessity of noting, monitoring, or complying with something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is versatile and appears across various contexts, though it leans towards formal and scientific registers. While the phrase is generally correct, overuse in informal contexts should be avoided. Alternatives such as "to be noted" or "to be followed" can be used depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to use this phrase to emphasize the importance of paying attention to trends, rules, or phenomena in a clear and effective manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to be noted

Replaces 'observed' with 'noted', focusing on acknowledgement rather than detailed watching.

to be monitored

Substitutes 'observed' with 'monitored', emphasizing continuous tracking and oversight.

to be followed

Replaces 'observed' with 'followed', emphasizing compliance with guidelines or instructions.

to be heeded

Replaces 'observed' with 'heeded', shifting the focus to paying attention and following advice or warnings.

to be respected

Changes 'observed' to 'respected', highlighting adherence to rules, laws, or conventions.

to be complied with

More formal alternative to 'to be observed', stressing adherence to regulations or standards.

to be witnessed

Focuses on the act of seeing something happen, replacing 'observed' with 'witnessed'.

to be detected

Highlights the discovery or identification of something, substituting 'observed' with 'detected'.

to be inspected

Emphasizes a careful and critical examination, replacing 'observed' with 'inspected'.

to be scrutinized

Indicates a thorough and critical examination, more intensive than simply observing.

FAQs

How can I use "to be observed" in a sentence?

You can use "to be observed" to indicate something that should be noted, watched, or followed. For example, "The changes in the market need to be observed carefully", or "All safety regulations are to be observed at all times".

What are some alternatives to "to be observed"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to be noted", "to be monitored", or "to be followed".

Is it correct to say "should be observed" instead of "to be observed"?

Yes, "should be observed" is grammatically correct and conveys a similar meaning, often implying a recommendation or obligation. "The effects of the new policy should be observed closely" is a valid alternative.

What's the difference between "to be observed" and "must be observed"?

"To be observed" indicates something that needs attention or should be followed, while "must be observed" implies a stronger obligation or requirement. The latter suggests a necessity rather than a suggestion.