What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abides
Example
He abides by the rules of the game. [abides: verb]
Example
She abides the cold weather by wearing warm clothes. [abides: verb]
observe
Example
We observe Christmas by decorating the tree and exchanging gifts. [observe: verb]
Example
I observed that the bird had built a nest in the tree outside my window. [observed: past tense verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Observe is more commonly used than abides in everyday language. Observe is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while abides is less common and refers to a specific type of compliance.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abides and observe?
Observe is more formal than abides and is often used in legal or official contexts. Abides is more casual and can be used in informal contexts.
