observe

observar

observe(uhb-zuhrv)

transitive verb

1. (to watch)

a. observar

This is a chance to observe these rare animals in their natural habitat.

Esta es una oportunidad de observar estos animales poco comunes en su hábitat natural.

2. (to keep under observation)

a. vigilar

The secret services were observing what went on at the embassy.

Los servicios secretos estaban vigilando lo que pasaba en la embajada.

b. observar

We observe the children in the classroom and monitor their progress.

Observamos a los niños en el aula y seguimos sus progresos.

3. (to notice)

a. observar

I observed how he captured the audience's attention.

Observé cómo captaba la atención del público.

b. ver

Did you observe him leaving the house?

¿Lo viste salir de la casa?

4. (to comment)

a. observar

"That is not strictly true," she observed.

"Eso no es del todo cierto", observó.

5. (to abide by)

a. observar

When you join the club, you agree to observe the rules.

Cuando te haces socio del club, te comprometes a observar las reglas.

b. respetar

I refuse to observe a law I do not agree with.

Me niego a respetar una ley con la cual no estoy de acuerdo.

c. cumplir

Although the law was passed, it has never been observed.

Aunque aprobaron la ley, nunca se cumplió.

d. acatar

The guidelines set out several principles which need to be observed.

En las pautas se exponen varios principios que es necesario acatar.

e. guardar

We shall now observe a minute's silence in memory of the victims.

Ahora guardaremos un minuto de silencio en memoria de las víctimas.

6. (to celebrate)

a. celebrar

Buddhists do not observe Christmas.

Los budistas no celebran la Navidad.

intransitive verb

7. (to watch)

a. observar

We were asked to observe, without commenting.

Se nos pidió observar sin comentar.