very observant

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "very observant" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe someone who is highly attentive to details or aware of their surroundings. Example: "She is very observant, noticing even the smallest changes in her environment."

✓ Grammatically correct

General Writing

Descriptive Writing

Character Analysis

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Fisheries administrators should ensure that their field patrol staff are trained to be very observant and to record their observations from the time the vessel is sighted until a decision is made to order the vessel to port or to permit it to carry on with its activities.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

He was very observant.

The New York Times

"He's also very observant.

The New York Times - Arts

She's very observant.

The Washington Post

Desperation: that's very observant.

The Guardian - Music

He's very observant.

The New York Times - Sports

Well, they were very observant.

The New York Times

He was very observant, always.

The New Yorker

"You're very observant," she says.

The New York Times

Michael was very observant and detail-oriented.

The New York Times - Magazine

I am quiet but is very observant.

Cornell University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "very observant" when you want to emphasize someone's ability to notice and understand subtle details or changes in their environment. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "very observant" to describe noticing obvious things. This can make the description sound exaggerated or insincere. Reserve it for situations where the observation requires genuine insight or attention to detail.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "very observant" functions as an adjectival phrase used to modify a noun, typically a person, emphasizing their heightened ability to notice and interpret details. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently encountered in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

78%

Academia

12%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "very observant" is a grammatically correct and frequently used adjectival phrase to describe someone who is highly attentive and perceptive. As Ludwig AI confirms, its versatility makes it suitable for various contexts, primarily in news, media, and academic writing. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the specific context and avoids overuse with simple observations. Alternatives such as "highly perceptive" or "extremely attentive" can provide similar nuances. The phrase's neutral register ensures its appropriateness across different communication styles, making it a valuable addition to any writer's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

highly perceptive

Emphasizes the ability to understand things quickly and accurately.

incredibly perceptive

Emphasizes the exceptional level of understanding and insight.

extremely attentive

Highlights the focus and care taken in observing details.

remarkably sharp-eyed

Focuses on the visual acuity and attention to detail.

exceptionally keen

Indicates a strong and eager interest in noticing things.

noticeably astute

Stresses the intelligence and shrewdness in observation.

deeply aware

Highlights a profound understanding and consciousness of surroundings.

unusually discerning

Emphasizes the ability to distinguish subtle differences.

intensely mindful

Focuses on the state of being conscious and aware of the present moment.

particularly vigilant

Highlights the quality of being watchful and alert to potential dangers or changes.

FAQs

How can I use "very observant" in a sentence?

You can use "very observant" to describe someone who notices details easily. For example: "She is "very observant", noticing even the smallest changes in the room."

What are some alternatives to "very observant"?

Alternatives include "highly perceptive", "extremely attentive", or "incredibly discerning", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "observant" or "very observant"?

Using "very observant" emphasizes the degree of attentiveness. "Observant" is suitable when the context already implies a high level of awareness, while "very observant" adds extra emphasis.

What's the difference between "very observant" and "very aware"?

"Very observant" focuses on noticing details and changes, while "very aware" implies a broader understanding and consciousness of the surroundings and potential implications.