# observational

/ˌɑbzɝˈveɪʃənəɫ/ (US) · /ɒbzəvˈeɪʃənəl/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/observational
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

relating to the act of watching something carefully to learn about it. You use this to describe work or skills that rely on seeing things as they really are.

For teachers: relating to or based on the act of watching and recording phenomena as they occur in their natural state. Often describes research methods that do not involve experimental manipulation.

## Examples

- She has excellent observational skills and notices every small detail.
- The scientists conducted an observational study to see how the birds behaved in the wild without human interference.
- The comedian's set relied heavily on observational humor, drawing sharp and relatable insights from the mundane frustrations of modern office life and public transportation.

## Usage notes

- Typically used attributively before a noun, such as 'study', 'skills', or 'humor'.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.