Observe (Verb)
Meaning 1
Follow with the eyes or the mind; "Keep an eye on the baby, please!"; "The world is watching Sarajevo"; "She followed the men with the binoculars".
Classification
Verbs of political and social activities and events.
Examples
- The scientist will observe the reaction to see the effects of the new chemical compound.
- Observe the birds as they fly south for the winter to understand their migration patterns.
- We need to observe the child's behavior closely to identify the root cause of the problem.
- A team of astronomers gathered to observe the rare lunar eclipse through the telescope.
- Medical students were advised to observe a surgeon during an operation to learn the procedure.
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Meaning 2
Show respect towards; "honor your parents!".
Classification
Verbs of political and social activities and events.
Examples
- We will observe a moment of silence in memory of our deceased loved one who passed away.
- In many cultures it is customary to observe strict etiquette when interacting with royalty or high-ranking officials.
- To observe the 40-day mourning period, she wore only dark clothing throughout.
- It is imperative that guests observe the household rules while staying with their host family.
- In some families it is crucial to observe the traditions of one's ancestors to keep their memories alive.
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Meaning 3
Watch attentively; "Please observe the reaction of these two chemicals".
Classification
Verbs of seeing, hearing, feeling.
Examples
- Please observe the bird's behavior closely to understand its habitat requirements.
- Observe the changes in your body's physical condition during this new exercise routine.
- The scientist asked her students to observe the plant's growth under different temperature conditions.
- It's essential to observe traffic laws and regulations while driving on unfamiliar roads.
- Please observe the audience's reaction to the comedian's new material and take notes.
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Meaning 4
Stick to correctly or closely; "The pianist kept time with the metronome"; "keep count"; "I cannot keep track of all my employees".
Classification
Verbs of thinking, judging, analyzing, doubting.
Examples
- The company will observe all safety regulations during the construction of the new building.
- She tried to observe her daily calorie intake to maintain her weight.
- To pass the exam, it is crucial that students observe the recommended study schedule.
- The athlete was required to observe a strict training regimen to prepare for the competition.
- Please observe the speed limit to ensure everyone's safety on the road.
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Meaning 5
Conform one's action or practice to; "keep appointments"; "she never keeps her promises"; "We kept to the original conditions of the contract".
Classification
Verbs of political and social activities and events.
Examples
- The management expects all employees to observe company rules and regulations at all times.
- She tries to observe her parents' values and practices by always telling the truth.
- The employees are required to observe the dress code while working in the front office.
- We ask you to observe the community standards and respect other users on this platform.
- Businesses must observe the health and safety regulations at all times to avoid any liabilities.
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Meaning 6
Observe with care or pay close attention to; "Take note of this chemical reaction".
Classification
Verbs of seeing, hearing, feeling.
Examples
- The researcher was required to observe the test subjects' behavior for any changes or reactions to the new treatment.
- Please observe the differences in the growth patterns of these plants under varying light conditions.
- It is essential to observe the warning signs and take necessary precautions before hiking in the wilderness.
- The teacher asked her students to observe the painting and describe its composition and symbolism.
- The scientist carefully set up the experiment and instructed her team to observe the chemical reaction and record their findings.
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Meaning 7
Discover or determine the existence, presence, or fact of; "She detected high levels of lead in her drinking water"; "We found traces of lead in the paint".
Classification
Verbs of seeing, hearing, feeling.
Examples
- Scientists were able to observe the effects of climate change on polar ice caps by collecting and analyzing satellite data over several years.
- Through close observation, the researchers found a direct link between the increased use of pesticides and the declining bee population.
- The team worked tirelessly to observe and record the habits of the endangered species, hoping to gain valuable insights into their behavior.
- Using specialized equipment, the astronomers were able to observe the distant star system and collect crucial data about the planets within it.
- After months of observation, the anthropologists were able to observe subtle cultural differences between the two groups they were studying.
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Meaning 8
Behave as expected during of holidays or rites; "Keep the commandments"; "celebrate Christmas"; "Observe Yom Kippur".
Classification
Verbs of political and social activities and events.
Examples
- Christians observe Lent by giving up certain luxuries and praying more often before Easter.
- Many people observe Easter by attending church services and participating in family gatherings.
- The family will observe Passover with a traditional meal and by reading from the Haggadah.
- In order to observe the Islamic holiday of Ramadan, many Muslims fast during daylight hours.
- To observe the Jewish holiday of Hanukkah, families light the menorah each evening and exchange gifts.
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Meaning 9
Make mention of; "She observed that his presentation took up too much time"; "They noted that it was a fine day to go sailing".
Classification
Verbs of telling, asking, ordering, singing.
Examples
- She observed that the new employee seemed to be struggling with the tasks assigned to him.
- The coach observed that the player's technique had improved significantly over the past few weeks.
- They observed that the increase in temperature was affecting the overall soil quality.
- She observed that the color of the walls didn't match the furniture in the living room.
- He observed that the company's profits had decreased due to the rise in production costs.