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beobachten
/bəˈʔoːbaxtn̩/
to observe
Der Wissenschaftler beobachtet die Vögel im Wald.
The scientist observes the birds in the forest.
general
To watch or monitor something carefully, often for scientific or analytical purposes.
Die Polizei beobachtet verdächtige Aktivitäten.
The police are observing suspicious activities.
Wir beobachten die Entwicklung des Projekts.
We are observing the development of the project.
This verb is often used in scientific, professional, or formal contexts to describe careful observation.
Collocations
etwas genau beobachtento observe something closelyjemanden beobachtento observe someonedie Natur beobachtento observe nature
Antonyms
Pro Tip
Formal vs. Informal Use
'Beobachten' is more formal than 'gucken' or 'schauen'. Use it in professional or scientific settings.
Gold Rule
Subject-Object Agreement
Remember that 'beobachten' is a transitive verb and requires an object (e.g., 'Ich beobachte die Vögel.').
Word Origin
From Middle High German 'beobachten', from 'be-' (intensive prefix) + 'achten' (to observe, heed).
Usage Notes
In German, 'beobachten' is often used in formal or scientific contexts. It implies a more systematic or intentional observation than 'sehen' (to see).
Word Breakdown
be-
intensive prefix
prefix-achten
to observe, heed
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