observation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
observation Word Meanings
- the act of watching something carefully
- a comment or remark based on something seen
- a way of gathering information by looking or noticing
observation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
observation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌɒbzəˈveɪʃən/
US
/ˌɑbzərˈveɪʃən/
observation Word Etymology
observation: ob- = over, servare = to watch. Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Visualize someone peering through a telescope, observing the stars with great care and focus, collecting data from the universe.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I lean forward, move my eyes along the street, and set my gaze where the action gathers. A bus glides by and the scene shifts; I adjust my stance to keep tracking. It feels like listening with the eyes, a push and pull between focus and drift. Later I turn what I saw into a short remark or note, letting the moment speak through my own observation.
Real Context
Observation is the act of watching something closely to gain information or understanding. It can refer to noticing details over time, as in scientific observation, or to a remark based on what is seen, such as a comment about behavior. It also describes the process of gathering data by looking, listening, and recording what you notice. In everyday English you might say your observation was that the room grew quieter after they arrived, or that the scientist's observations supported the hypothesis. The noun can also refer to the observed fact, not just the act of watching.
Usage Reminders
- - Notice details before making a claim about it.
- - Observation is about what you see or measure, not what you assume.
- - Use observation to report facts, then add interpretation if needed.
- - Distinguish your observations from your conclusions.
- - In scientific writing, cite what you observed and how you observed it.
Common Misconceptions
- Observation is just looking; it always involves counting or measuring.
- Observations are opinions, not facts.
- If you think something, it is an observation.
- Observation and interpretation are the same thing.
- Only scientists make observations.
Thinking Differences
In English, observation is often framed as a neutral report of what is seen, with careful wording to separate facts from interpretation.
Learning Tips
- Keep a daily observation log with details and dates.
- Practice distinguishing facts from interpretations.
- Use precise nouns like observation and remark correctly.
- Describe methods you used to observe (what you looked at, for how long).
- Compare multiple observations to spot patterns.
- Summarize findings in clear, objective language.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'observation'?
A.Observation
B.Analysis
C.Understanding
D.Confusion
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'observation' correctly?
A.He ate his observation quickly.
B.She made a detailed observation about the book.
C.The observation of the cat was orange.
D.Let's go to the park and observation the nature.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'observation'?
A.Evaluation
B.Persuasion
C.Explanation
D.Correction
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'observation'?
A.Concealment
B.Hypothesis
C.Distraction
D.Participation
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life scenario where 'observation' is important?
A.Walking in the park
B.Driving a car
C.Taking a test
D.Cooking dinner
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