third-person singular verb
Watches someone or something carefully, especially to learn more about it.
She observes the birds in the garden.
The scientist observes the behavior of the insects.
American English
How to pronounce observes
verbB2Common word
uhbZERVZ
/əbˈzɚvz/
2 syllables · Stress the second syllable.
Form of observe
Watches someone or something carefully, especially to learn more about it.
Practice out loudMeanings & examples
third-person singular verb
Notices or recognizes something by looking or paying attention.
The doctor observes a small change in her condition.
He observes that the door is still unlocked.
Good to know
In everyday English, notice is often more natural for this meaning.
third-person singular verb
Follows a rule, law, custom, or tradition.
The driver observes the speed limit on this road.
The community observes this tradition every spring.
third-person singular verb
Marks a special day by celebrating it or following its customs.
The town observes the holiday with a parade.
The country observes its independence anniversary in July.
Useful expressions
to remain silent for a short time to honor someone or remember an event
The crowd observed a moment of silence for the victims.
Related words & forms
The final e is dropped before -ing: observing, not observeing.