Observer: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a formal or technical context for someone who watches or studies something without actively participating.

• The scientists were keen observers of the planet's rotation.
• As an observer, he was not allowed to intervene in the meeting.

Typically used for someone who watches a public event, such as a sports game or performance. It implies that the person is there for entertainment.

• The stadium was filled with excited spectators.
• The spectators clapped loudly at the end of the play.

Refers to someone who watches an event or activity, often just out of curiosity and without any involvement. It has a more casual connotation.

• The onlookers gathered around the street performer.
• The accident attracted many onlookers who watched in silence.

Can be used in legal, formal, or situational contexts where someone sees an event and may need to report or testify about it later. Often, it indicates that something significant or notable occurred.

• The witness testified about the events he saw that night.
• She was a witness to the historic signing of the treaty.

Used when referring to a person who watches or notices something. Common in discussions about events, research, or situations where monitoring is involved.

• The observer recorded all the details of the experiment.
• As an observer of the meeting, she didn't participate in the discussions.

Used for tools, often precise or specialized, typically found in scientific, medical, or musical contexts.

• The doctor used a special instrument to examine the patient's eyes.
• He played the musical instrument beautifully.

Appropriate when talking about a complex structure or machinery, often used in scientific or technical contexts. Can also refer to an organizational system.

• The laboratory is equipped with the latest apparatus for chemical analysis.
• The political apparatus was working behind the scenes to influence the decision.

Best used for objects or machines, typically electronic, designed for a specific function. Common in everyday language about technology and tools.

• She bought a new device to help her track her fitness goals.
• The security device sounded an alarm when the door was opened.

An observer is generally used when someone is watching an event, situation or behavior without getting involved. This term is often used in contexts like scientific research, military operations, or any kind of formal event where passive observation is required.

• The scientist acted as an observer during the experiment.
• As an observer, she recorded all the details of the meeting.

A monitor is used when someone regularly checks or tracks certain activities or conditions over a period. This term can be used in various fields including education, technology, and healthcare.

• The nurse will monitor the patient's vital signs throughout the night.
• He was assigned to monitor the progress of the project.

An inspector is typically used when referring to someone who examines or reviews something in a formal and official capacity. This word is often associated with roles related to health, safety, quality, and standards.

• The health inspector visited the restaurant to check for hygiene standards.
• A building inspector was called to assess the safety of the new construction.

An auditor is mainly used in contexts related to finance and business. This term refers to a person who officially examines the financial records of a company or organization to ensure accuracy and compliance with laws and regulations.

• The company hired an external auditor to review its financial statements.
• The auditor found discrepancies in the accounting records.