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observation

n.
US //ˌɑbzɝˈveɪʃən// UK //ɒbzəvˈeɪʃən// ob·ser·va·tion
  1. 1 watching carefully (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    the act of watching someone or something carefully, especially to learn something.

    the act of monitoring or watching a subject with close attention, often for scientific or investigative purposes.

    Example

    The patient was kept in the hospital for observation after the accident.

    Example

    The researchers spent several months in the field, conducting close observation of the primates' social hierarchies and feeding habits.

    Usage

    Often used with the preposition 'under' or 'for'.
  2. 2 a comment or remark (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    a comment or opinion based on something you have seen or heard.

    a remark or statement based on something one has noticed or considered.

    Example

    He made an interesting observation about how the city has changed.

    Example

    The critic's subtle observation regarding the artist's use of shadow provided a fresh perspective for the gallery visitors.

    Usage

    Commonly follows the verb 'make'.
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  1. 3 recorded data (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Technical Science

    a piece of information or a fact that is recorded during an experiment or study.

    the act of noting and recording a specific event or the resulting record of such an act.

    Example

    The scientist wrote down her observations in a small notebook.

    Example

    The meteorological station provides hourly observations of wind speed, atmospheric pressure, and humidity to the national weather service.
  2. 4 following a rule (n.)
    C2 Proficiency Formal

    the act of following a law, custom, or religious rule.

    the performance of what is prescribed or adherence to a practice; often interchangeable with 'observance'.

    Example

    The strict observation of the local traditions is expected from all visitors.

    Example

    The legal team ensured the meticulous observation of all procedural requirements to avoid any grounds for an appeal.
Origin

From Middle English observacion, borrowed from Middle French observacion. Also a borrowing from French observation and a learned borrowing from Latin observātiō(n-). Morphologically observe + -ation.

Word family

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