to watch carefully the way something happens or the way someone does something, especially in order to learn more about it, to notice or see something, to celebrate or perform a religious or traditional ceremony

observe the Sabbath, observe protocol, observe silence

observe someone closely, observe the rules, observe a custom

Formal and Informal Expressions of observe

In different contexts, you can replace 'observe' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'monitor, scrutinize' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'watch, check out' is a commonplace synonym.

observe: Explore its Definition & Usage

observe Definition

1to watch carefully the way something happens or the way someone does something, especially in order to learn more about it
2to notice or see something
3to celebrate or perform a religious or traditional ceremony

Using observe: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "observe" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
Scientists observe the behavior of chimpanzees in the wild.
Example
I observed a strange man lurking outside my house.
Example
We will observe a moment of silence in honor of the victims.
Example
The holiday is observed on the first Monday in September.

observe Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for observe

Antonyms for observe

Idioms Using observe

observe the Sabbath
to rest and worship on the seventh day of the week, as required by Jewish or Christian tradition
Example
As a devout Jew, he always observes the Sabbath by attending synagogue and refraining from work.
observe protocol
to follow the proper procedures or etiquette in a particular situation
Example
When meeting with foreign dignitaries, it is important to observe protocol and show respect for their customs.
observe silence
to remain quiet or refrain from speaking, often as a sign of respect or mourning
Example
At the memorial service, everyone observed a moment of silence in honor of the deceased.

Phrases with observe

observe someone closely
to watch someone carefully and attentively
Example
The detective observed the suspect closely, looking for any signs of guilt.
observe the rules
to follow or obey the rules
Example
All players must observe the rules of the game.
observe a custom
to perform a traditional or customary practice
Example
Many people observe the custom of exchanging gifts during the holiday season.

Origins of observe

from Old French 'observer', from Latin 'observare', from 'ob-' (in the direction of) + 'servare' (to watch)

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Summary: observe in Brief

To 'observe' [əbˈzərv] means to watch carefully in order to learn more about something or someone, to notice or see something, or to celebrate or perform a religious or traditional ceremony. It can refer to scientific study, as in 'Scientists observe the behavior of chimpanzees in the wild,' or to following rules or customs, as in 'All players must observe the rules of the game.' 'Observe' also extends into idioms like 'observe protocol,' meaning to follow proper procedures, and 'observe silence,' meaning to remain quiet as a sign of respect or mourning.