French word

observation

Pronunciation

IPA/opsɛʁvasjɔ̃/

Meaning

  • feminine nounremark

Example

Lors de la réunion, il a fait une observation pertinente.

At the meeting, he made a pertinent remark.

Illustration for observation (remark)

More examples

Le témoin a fait une observation pertinente sur ce qui s'est passé.

The witness made a relevant observation about what happened.

Core concept

A short comment that places one noticeable point before others for attention.

Common phrases

  • faire une observation

    make an observation

  • noter une observation

    record an observation

  • partager une observation

    share an observation

Similar words

remarque: A short statement about something noticed.
constatation: The act of confirming and establishing a fact or situation.

Definition in French

Remarque brève sur un fait, un comportement ou une situation, exprimant un constat, une critique ou une note d'attention.

Word origin

The noun derives from Latin observatio, formed from observare, 'to watch closely', and its French senses extend from noticing to commenting on what was noticed.

Usage tips

  • Faire une observation can sound like a polite criticism or correction, depending on the wording and context, rather than a purely neutral report.

Other meanings

  • commentnoun
  • observationnoun

Related words

Word lists with this word