Spanish word

observar

Pronunciation

IPA/oβseɾˈβaɾ/

Meaning

  • verbobserve

Example

¿Has observado algo extraño aquí?

Have you observed anything strange here?

Illustration for observar (observe)

More examples

Antes de responder, intenta observar detenidamente la situación.

Before answering, try to observe the situation closely.

Core concept

Systematic watching or recording of what someone or something does.

Common phrases

  • observar detenidamente

    observe closely

  • observar los detalles

    observe the details

  • observar cambios

    observe changes

Similar words

mirar: Aims the gaze at something to view or inspect it.
ver: Registers visually what is there, perceiving shapes, colors, and movement.
fijarse: Intentionally directs attention to something, bringing it into conscious notice.
notar: Detects that something is different or present and mentally registers it.

Definition in Spanish

Fijar la atención en algo o alguien para percibir detalles, cambios o comportamientos.

Word origin

The Spanish verb derives from Latin observare (ob- "over" + servare "to keep, guard") and develops the idea of guarding into the practice of watching closely to record facts or behavior.

Usage tips

  • In many contexts observar signals an observational stance used in reports, research, or careful description and may sound too formal if used for casual looking.

Other meanings

  • noticeverb
  • comply withverb

Opposites

Related words

Word lists with this word