observe

[əbˈzərv]

observe Definition

• 1. to watch carefully the way something happens or the way someone does something, especially in order to learn more about it
• 2. to notice or see something
• 3. to 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

• watch
• examine
• inspect
• monitor
• survey

Antonyms for observe

• ignore
• overlook
• disregard

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)

📌

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.