# observe

/əbˈzɝv/ (US) · /ɒbzˈɜːv/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/observe
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. to watch carefully

verb · CEFR B2

to watch someone or something carefully, often to learn something new.

For teachers: to watch or monitor something with attention to detail, often for scientific or investigative purposes.

- The scientists stayed up all night to observe the behavior of the birds.
- Researchers spent several months in the field to observe how the local wolf population interacted with neighboring packs during the winter.

Usage: Often used with a direct object or a 'that' clause.

### 2. to follow a rule

verb · CEFR B2 · Formal

to obey a law, a rule, or a religious custom.

For teachers: to comply with or adhere to a law, regulation, or religious tradition.

- Drivers must observe the speed limit to keep the roads safe.
- The company failed to observe the safety regulations, resulting in a significant fine from the environmental protection agency.

Usage: Transitive; takes a direct object representing the rule or law.

### 3. to celebrate a holiday

verb · CEFR B2 · Formal

to mark or celebrate a special day, like a holiday.

For teachers: to acknowledge or celebrate a holiday, anniversary, or significant event through traditional practices.

- Many people observe a moment of silence to remember the soldiers.
- The embassy will be closed on Monday as the staff observe the national holiday of their home country.

### 4. to make a comment

verb · CEFR C1 · Formal

to say or write a remark about something you have noticed.

For teachers: to make a verbal or written remark; to comment on a situation or fact.

- "It is getting quite late," she observed as she looked at the clock.
- The critic observed that the director's latest film lacked the emotional depth of his earlier masterpieces.

Usage: Often introduces a direct quote or a 'that' clause.

## Examples

- Scientists observe the behavior of birds in the wild.
- The security guards observe the crowd through cameras to ensure everyone stays safe during the concert.
- While researchers observe the chemical reaction for any signs of instability, the staff must strictly observe all safety protocols to prevent an accidental spill.

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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.