- ob|ser|va|tion
- ob|ser|va|tion «OB zuhr VAY shuhn», noun, adjective.–n.1. the act, habit, or power of seeing and noting: »
By his trained observation the doctor knew that the unconscious man was not dead.
3. Often, observations. something seen and noted; data or information secured by observing: »The student of bird life kept a record of his observations.
4. th act of watching for some special purpose; study: »The observation of nature is important in science.
6. the process of measuring by a sextant or similar instrument the altitude of the sun or other heavenly body to determine the latitude and longitude of a ship or airplane.7. Obsolete. observance.–adj.1. from which to observe: »an observation balloon. There were also observation towers which I was able to climb to look out across the forest and the mountains (Manchester Guardian).
2. within which persons or animals can be watched and studied: »an observation cell or ward equipped with one-way glass.
Usage Observation, observance are sometimes confused because both are related to the verb observe. Observation, connected with the meaning “watch closely,” applies especially to the act or power of noticing things or watching closely, or to being watched or noticed: »An observatory is for the observation of the stars.
Observance, connected with the meaning “keep,” applies to the act of keeping and following customs or duties, or to a rule or law, kept or celebrated: »You go to church for the observance of religious duties.
Observation is sometimes used in this sense, but this usage is now rare.
Useful english dictionary. 2012.