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Spotting Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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spotting

[ˈspɒtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

birdwatching

The activity of watching and identifying birds in their natural habitat.

Synonyms

birding, birdwatching, ornithology.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spotting

The term 'spotting' can also be used specifically among hobbies such as plane spotting or train spotting, where enthusiasts observe and log specific models or types.

  • He has a keen interest in plane spotting and spends hours at the airport
birdwatching

Use 'birdwatching' as a more formal or generic term for the activity of watching birds. It is suitable for both casual hobbies and more dedicated practices.

  • Birdwatching is a relaxing activity that helps you appreciate nature
birding

Use 'birding' in a casual or conversational context to describe the hobby of observing and identifying birds in their natural habitat.

  • We went birding early in the morning to see some rare species
ornithology

Use 'ornithology' when discussing the scientific study of birds. This term is appropriate in academic or professional contexts.

  • She published a paper on migratory patterns in a well-known ornithology journal

Examples of usage

  • Spotting is a popular pastime among nature enthusiasts.
  • She enjoys spotting rare bird species during her trips.
  • Many birdwatchers use binoculars for better spotting.
  • The spotting event attracted a large crowd of birdwatching enthusiasts.
  • Spotting can be a relaxing and rewarding experience in nature.
Context #2 | Noun

fashion

The act of noticing or identifying a fashionable or trendy item or style.

Synonyms

identifying, noticing, recognizing.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spotting

Generally used when something or someone is seen or observed in a brief or quick manner, especially when it's unexpected.

  • She was spotting rare birds in the forest
  • The detective was good at spotting clues
noticing

This is used when something catches your attention, often in a more casual or spontaneous manner without deep analysis.

  • I've been noticing that the days are getting shorter
  • She kept noticing how beautiful the sunset was
identifying

This is often used when you are determining the identity or nature of something, and it usually involves more detailed observation or analysis.

  • The biologist spent hours identifying different plant species
  • It's important to correctly identifying the source of the problem before finding a solution
recognizing

This is often used when you acknowledge or become aware of something or someone from previous encounters or knowledge.

  • I had trouble recognizing him after so many years
  • She immediately recognizing the song from her childhood

Examples of usage

  • She has a keen eye for spotting the latest fashion trends.
  • Spotting unique accessories can enhance your outfit.
  • His talent for spotting new designers helped him become a fashion influencer.
  • Spotting vintage pieces in thrift stores is a popular trend.
  • The magazine features a section on spotting celebrity fashion styles.
Context #3 | Verb

spotting errors

The act of discovering or identifying mistakes, inaccuracies, or flaws.

Synonyms

detecting, finding, identifying.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
spotting

Used when noticing or observing something, often quickly or unexpectedly.

  • He had a talent for spotting rare birds.
  • She was good at spotting spelling mistakes in the text.
detecting

Used when discovering something that is not immediately obvious, often involving special equipment or techniques.

  • The alarm system is capable of detecting motion.
  • Scientists are detecting small changes in the environment.
finding

Used when coming across something after a search or effort.

  • She is always finding new places to eat.
  • They had trouble finding the address.
identifying

Used when recognizing and naming a particular person or thing.

  • The police are identifying the fingerprints.
  • She is good at identifying the problems in a project.

Examples of usage

  • She excels at spotting grammatical errors in written documents.
  • His attention to detail is crucial for spotting discrepancies in the data.
  • Spotting errors early can save time and prevent misunderstandings.
  • The editor's job involves spotting and correcting typos in the manuscript.
  • Training your eye for spotting errors is essential for quality control.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In astronomy, 'spotting' refers to the observation of celestial bodies, like spotting a comet or a planet in the night sky.
  • Wildlife biologists use spotting techniques to track and identify different species in their natural habitats.

Pop Culture

  • In photography, 'spotting' refers to the process of identifying and correcting imperfections in images.
  • The term is popular in sports, especially when highlighting a player's performance in a game, such as 'spotting' their skills.

Psychology

  • Spotting nuances in conversations can improve communication, helping individuals read emotions and intentions better.
  • People often develop 'spotting' skills through experience, enabling them to identify subtle changes in behavior.

Literature

  • In literary analysis, 'spotting' themes or motifs can help readers better understand an author's message.
  • Detective stories often revolve around 'spotting' clues that lead to solving a mystery, engaging readers to think critically.

Origin of 'spotting'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'spotting' comes from the Old English word 'spottian,' which means 'to mark' or 'to show.'
  • It evolved in the 15th century to mean both identifying and marking something special or noteworthy.

The word 'spotting' originates from the verb 'spot,' which has been used since the 14th century to mean 'to mark or notice something.' Over time, 'spotting' evolved to encompass various contexts, from birdwatching to fashion and error detection. Its versatility in describing the act of noticing or identifying has made it a popular term in different fields.

See also: spot, spotless, spotlessness, spotlight, spotlighted, spots, spotted, spotter, spotty.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,489, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.