Word
observant
Phoneticsob·ser·vant, stress on the second syllable
US/əbˈzɝvənt/
UK/ɒbzˈɜːvənt/
Definition
adj. good at noticing small details or changes that other people might miss. It can also describe someone who follows all the rules of their religion.
adj. quick to notice or perceive things; alert and attentive to detail. Also describes strict adherence to the laws and rituals of a particular religion or custom.
Examples
“She is very observant and noticed my new haircut immediately.”
“An observant passerby noticed the smoke coming from the basement window and called the fire department before the alarm even sounded.”
“The detective remained silent and observant throughout the interview, noting the slight tremor in the suspect's hands whenever the victim's name was mentioned.”
Examples
simple
“She is very observant and noticed my new haircut immediately.”
contextual
“An observant passerby noticed the smoke coming from the basement window and called the fire department before the alarm even sounded.”
complex
“The detective remained silent and observant throughout the interview, noting the slight tremor in the suspect's hands whenever the victim's name was mentioned.”
Usage
Often used predicatively after linking verbs like 'remain' or 'stay'.
Real-World Examples
“Observant Muslims pray five times daily, so students and employees sometimes need a space to pray – an accommodation that can be as simple as being excused briefly from class or work.” Word family
VERB
ADJECTIVE
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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