German word

beobachten

Pronunciation

IPA/bəˈoːbaxtən/

Meaning

  • verbobserve

Example

Ich beobachte den Vogel im Garten.

I observe the bird in the garden.

Illustration for beobachten (observe)

More examples

Die Ärztin beobachtet den Patienten nach der Operation.

The doctor is observing the patient after the operation.

Core concept

A bird remains under attentive watch while repeated movements reveal a pattern.

Common phrases

  • beobachten etwas

    observe something

  • beobachten das Verhalten

    observe the behavior

  • genau beobachten

    observe closely

Similar words

sehen: Become aware of a person or thing through sight.
ansehen: Look at something to check its appearance or content.
anschauen: Direct the eyes toward something to examine it.
bemerken: Become aware of a change or event.

Definition in German

Etwas über eine gewisse Zeit aufmerksam ansehen, um Veränderungen oder Regelmäßigkeiten zu erkennen.

Word origin

The German verb continues Middle High German beobachten and combines be- with achten to express directed attention to an object.

Usage tips

  • Beobachten can describe watching a person, animal, or process, while überwachen more often adds an idea of supervision or control.

Other meanings

  • monitorverb
  • watchverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word