ENGLISH
REFERENCE

observing

v. · n. · adj.
US //əbˈzɝvɪŋ// UK //ɒbzˈɜːvɪŋ// ob·serv·ing
  1. 1 watching carefully (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    watching someone or something carefully to learn more about them.

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

    Example

    The scientists spent weeks observing the birds in their natural habitat.

    Example

    By observing the subtle shifts in the patient's heart rate, the medical team was able to intervene before the condition worsened.

    Usage

    Often used with a direct object representing the person or thing being watched.
  2. 2 following a rule (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal

    obeying a law, rule, or custom.

    complying with or adhering to a law, regulation, or established social custom.

    Example

    Observing the speed limit is essential for keeping the roads safe.

    Example

    The company was strictly observing the new environmental regulations to avoid heavy fines from the government.
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  1. 3 celebrating a holiday (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Formal Religion

    celebrating a religious holiday or a special tradition.

    performing the rituals or ceremonies associated with a religious or cultural occasion.

    Example

    Many families are observing the holiday by gathering for a traditional meal.

    Example

    The community has a long history of observing the spring festival with music and public dances.
  2. 4 the act of watching (n.)
    C1 Advanced Academic Formal

    the act of watching or noticing something.

    the action or process of closely monitoring something or someone.

    Example

    His careful observing of the stars led to a new discovery.

    Example

    The constant observing of the test subjects provided the researchers with enough data to conclude the study early.
  3. 5 quick to notice (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    good at noticing things that happen around you.

    possessing or showing a keen ability to notice details; observant.

    Example

    She has an observing eye and never misses a small detail.

    Example

    An observing traveler will notice that the local architecture changes significantly as one moves further north into the mountains.

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