観測する in 30 Seconds
- Formal verb for scientific or detailed observation.
- Implies careful, systematic watching and data collection.
- Used in astronomy, meteorology, biology, and technology.
- Distinct from general 'seeing' (見る).
The Japanese verb 観測する (kansoku suru) means to observe, watch carefully, or monitor. It's often used in contexts where detailed, systematic, or scientific observation is required. Think of astronomers watching stars, meteorologists tracking weather patterns, scientists studying animal behavior, or even a technician monitoring a machine's performance. It implies a deliberate and focused act of looking and gathering information, rather than casual glancing.
- Scientific Observation
- This is the most common usage. Scientists use 観測する to gather data for research.
- Monitoring Equipment
- Technicians or engineers observe readings from instruments.
- Environmental Studies
- Observing natural phenomena like plant growth or animal migration.
- Surveillance
- In some contexts, it can mean to watch or monitor for security purposes.
The astronomers will 観測する the new comet tonight.
The word is derived from the kanji 観 (kan), meaning 'view' or 'observe', and 測 (soku), meaning 'to measure' or 'to gauge'. Together, they powerfully convey the idea of careful, measured observation. It's a formal term, typically found in academic papers, scientific reports, news related to science and nature, and technical discussions. You wouldn't usually use it in casual conversation about everyday sights.
The weather station will 観測する the atmospheric pressure.
- Astronomical Events
- Observing stars, planets, and celestial phenomena.
- Meteorological Data
- Gathering data on temperature, wind, precipitation, etc.
- Biological Surveys
- Watching and recording animal behavior or plant growth.
- Geological Activity
- Monitoring earthquakes, volcanic activity, or sea levels.
- Technological Monitoring
- Watching the performance of systems or equipment.
観測する (kansoku suru) is a transitive verb, meaning it usually takes a direct object, which is what is being observed. It conjugates like any other Group 2 (ichidan) verb. Here are some common patterns and sentence structures:
- [Object] を 観測する
- This is the most straightforward structure. The particle 'を' (o) marks the direct object being observed.
The observatory will 観測する the solar eclipse.
In Japanese: 観測所は日食を観測する予定です。(Kansokujo wa nisshoku o kansoku suru yotei desu.)
- [Object] の 観測
- This uses the noun form '観測' (kansoku - observation) with the particle 'の' (no) to indicate possession or relation.
The research is about the observation of deep-sea creatures.
In Japanese: それは深海生物の観測に関する研究です。(Sore wa shinkai seibutsu no kansoku ni kansuru kenkyu desu.)
- [Location] で 観測する
- The particle 'で' (de) indicates the location where the observation takes place.
They observed the weather patterns from the mountain top.
In Japanese: 彼らは山頂で気象パターンを観測した。(Karera wa sanchō de kishō patān o kansoku shita.)
- [Time] に 観測する
- The particle 'に' (ni) can indicate a specific time or moment of observation.
The satellite began observing the Earth's surface at dawn.
In Japanese: その衛星は夜明けに地表を観測し始めた。(Sono eisei wa yoake ni chihyō o kansoku shi hajimeta.)
- [Method/Instrument] で 観測する
- The particle 'で' (de) can also indicate the instrument or method used for observation.
We observed the changes using a microscope.
In Japanese: 私たちは顕微鏡で変化を観測した。(Watashitachi wa kenbikyo de henka o kansoku shita.)
The verb can be used in its various tenses: the present/future plain form (観測する), the past plain form (観測した), the polite present/future form (観測します), the polite past form (観測しました), the te-form (観測して), and the potential form (観測できる - can observe).
The telescope allows us to observe distant galaxies.
In Japanese: その望遠鏡は、遠い銀河を観測することを可能にする。(Sono bōenkyō wa, tōi ginga o kansoku suru koto o kanō ni suru.)
You'll most frequently encounter 観測する (kansoku suru) in environments related to science, research, and technical fields. It's a staple in:
- Scientific Journals and Research Papers
- Academic publications detailing experiments and findings will invariably use this term to describe the data collection process.
- News Reports on Science and Nature
- News about astronomical discoveries, weather phenomena, or environmental studies will often use 観測する.
- Documentaries and Educational Programs
- Programs explaining scientific concepts or showcasing natural wonders will employ this verb.
- Weather Forecasts and Meteorological Reports
- Discussions about data collection for weather prediction often use 観測する.
- Technical Manuals and Reports
- When describing the operation or monitoring of machinery or systems.
- Museum Exhibits and Information Panels
- Explanations of scientific instruments or discoveries.
The news reported that satellites are observing deforestation.
In Japanese: ニュースでは、衛星が森林破壊を観測していると報じられた。(Nyūsu de wa, eisei ga shinrin hakai o kansoku shite iru to hōjirareta.)
The research team will observe the whale migration patterns.
In Japanese: 研究チームはクジラの回遊パターンを観測するだろう。(Kenkyū chīmu wa kuroshio no kaiyū patān o kansoku suru darō.)
- University Lectures and Seminars
- Professors discussing research methodologies or findings.
- Environmental Impact Assessments
- Reports detailing the observation of environmental changes.
Learners might make a few common mistakes when using 観測する (kansoku suru):
- Using it for casual observation
- Mistake: 友達の新しい服を観測する。(Tomodachi no atarashii fuku o kansoku suru.)
Correct: 友達の新しい服を見る。(Tomodachi no atarashii fuku o miru.)
Explanation: 観測する is too formal and scientific for observing a friend's clothing. Use 見る (miru) for general seeing or watching. - Confusing it with 測定する (sokutei suru - to measure)
- Mistake: 温度を観測する。(Ondo o kansoku suru.)
Correct: 温度を測定する。(Ondo o sokutei suru.)
Explanation: While observation might involve measurement, 測定する specifically means 'to measure' a quantity. 観測する is the broader act of observing, which may include taking measurements. - Overusing it in everyday conversation
- Mistake: 今日の天気は観測しましょう。(Kyō no tenki wa kansoku shimashō.)
Correct: 今日の天気を見ましょう。(Kyō no tenki o mimashō.) or 今日の天気予報を確認しましょう。(Kyō no tenki yohō o kakunin shimashō.)
Explanation: Unless you are a meteorologist actively collecting data, you would not 'observe' the weather in this manner. You would 'see' it or 'check' the forecast. - Incorrect particle usage
- Mistake: 宇宙を観測で。(Uchū o kansoku de.)
Correct: 宇宙を観測する。(Uchū o kansoku suru.) or 望遠鏡で宇宙を観測する。(Bōenkyō de uchū o kansoku suru.)
Explanation: Ensure the correct particles (like を for the object, で for the instrument/location) are used. The particle usage depends on what aspect of the observation you are describing. - Using it for subjective observations
- Mistake: 彼の表情を観測する。(Kare no hyōjō o kansoku suru.)
Correct: 彼の表情を見る。(Kare no hyōjō o miru.) or 彼の表情を観察する。(Kare no hyōjō o kansatsu suru.)
Explanation: While 観察する (kansatsu suru) is also a form of observation, it can be more about careful watching of behavior or characteristics. 観測する is typically for objective, often scientific, phenomena. For subjective interpretations of emotions, 見る is more natural.
While 観測する (kansoku suru) is specific, several other Japanese words relate to observing or watching, each with its own nuance:
- 見る (miru)
- Meaning: To see, to watch.
Usage: This is the most general verb for seeing or watching. It can be used for anything from watching TV to looking at a picture. It lacks the scientific or detailed connotation of 観測する.
Comparison: You see a bird (鳥を見る), but you might observe its nesting behavior (鳥の営巣行動を観測する). - 観察する (kansatsu suru)
- Meaning: To observe, to watch carefully (often behavior or characteristics).
Usage: This is very close to 観測する but often implies a focus on living things, behavior, or subtle details, rather than purely scientific measurement of phenomena. It can be used in a more informal or less strictly scientific context than 観測する.
Comparison: Scientists might observe a celestial body (天体を観測する), but a biologist might observe animal behavior (動物の行動を観察する). - 眺める (nagameru)
- Meaning: To gaze at, to view, to look out at.
Usage: This implies a more leisurely, often aesthetic, or contemplative way of looking at something, usually a view or a scene. It's not about data collection.
Comparison: You might gaze at the sunset (夕日を眺める), but you would observe the sunset's atmospheric effects for scientific study (夕日の大気効果を観測する). - 見守る (mimamoru)
- Meaning: To watch over, to guard, to keep an eye on.
Usage: This implies a protective or caring watch, often over people or something valuable. It's about ensuring well-being or safety.
Comparison: Parents watch over their children (子供を見守る), while a scientist might observe a child's developmental milestones (子供の発達段階を観測する) for research. - 監視する (kanshi suru)
- Meaning: To monitor, to keep under surveillance.
Usage: This has a stronger implication of control, security, or constant vigilance, often used in contexts of security cameras, monitoring systems, or keeping watch over a prisoner.
Comparison: Security guards monitor the building (建物を監視する), while astronomers observe stars (星を観測する).
The biologist will observe the animal's feeding habits.
In Japanese: 生物学者はその動物の摂食習慣を観察するだろう。(Seibutsugakusha wa sono dōbutsu no sesshoku shūkan o kansatsu suru darō.)
How Formal Is It?
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Fun Fact
The character 測 (soku) originally depicted a tool for measuring water depth, reflecting its meaning of gauging or measuring. This connection to measurement is key to understanding why 観測する is used for scientific observation, which often involves precise measurements.
Pronunciation Guide
- Incorrectly pronouncing the 'u' sound in 'suru' as too strong.
- Adding an English 's' sound to 'kan' instead of the nasal 'n'.
- Confusing the 'soku' sound with similar-sounding syllables in other words.
Difficulty Rating
Requires understanding of scientific contexts and formal vocabulary. Often appears in academic or technical texts.
Appropriate use depends on the context; overusing it in casual writing would be incorrect.
Used in formal discussions, presentations, or scientific contexts. Not common in everyday conversation.
Common in documentaries, news reports about science, and lectures.
What to Learn Next
Prerequisites
Learn Next
Advanced
Grammar to Know
Transitive verbs and the particle を (o)
観測する takes a direct object marked by を. E.g., 宇宙を観測する (uchū o kansoku suru - to observe space).
Potential form of verbs
観測できる (kansoku dekiru) means 'can observe'. E.g., 遠くの星を観測できる (tōku no hoshi o kansoku dekiru - can observe distant stars).
Passive voice (される)
観測される (kansoku sareru) means 'to be observed'. E.g., その現象は観測された (sono genshō wa kansoku sareta - that phenomenon was observed).
Using particles で (de) for instrument/location
望遠鏡で観測する (bōenkyō de kansoku suru - to observe with a telescope); 山頂で観測する (sanchō de kansoku suru - to observe on the mountaintop).
Using particles に (ni) for time
夜明けに観測する (yoake ni kansoku suru - to observe at dawn).
Examples by Level
空を見ます。
I watch the sky.
Simple present tense verb 見ます (mimasu).
鳥が飛んでいます。
Birds are flying.
Verb in the -te iru form for ongoing action.
星がきれいです。
The stars are beautiful.
Adjective きれい (kirei) meaning beautiful.
雨が降っています。
It is raining.
Verb 降る (furu) in the -te iru form.
太陽が見えます。
I can see the sun.
Potential form of 見る (miru) - 見える (mieru).
雲が動いています。
The clouds are moving.
Verb 動く (ugoku) in the -te iru form.
遠くの山が見えます。
I can see the distant mountains.
Adjective 遠い (tōi) meaning distant.
夜空を眺めます。
I gaze at the night sky.
Verb 眺める (nagameru) meaning to gaze at.
天気予報をチェックしました。
I checked the weather forecast.
Past tense of チェックする (chekku suru - to check).
昨日の気温を記録しました。
I recorded yesterday's temperature.
Past tense of 記録する (kiroku suru - to record).
望遠鏡で月を見ています。
I am watching the moon with a telescope.
Verb 見る (miru) in the -te iru form, with 望遠鏡 (bōenkyō - telescope) as the instrument.
雨雲が近づいています。
Rain clouds are approaching.
Verb 近づく (chikazuku) in the -te iru form.
植物の成長を観察しました。
I observed the plant's growth.
Past tense of 観察する (kansatsu suru - to observe).
この機械の動きを注意深く見ています。
I am carefully watching the movement of this machine.
Adverb 注意深く (chūibukaku) meaning carefully.
夜空に輝く星々を観察しました。
I observed the stars shining in the night sky.
Adjective 輝く (kagayaku) meaning shining.
鳥の鳴き声を注意して聞いていました。
I was listening carefully to the birds' calls.
Verb 聞く (kiku) in the past continuous form.
科学者たちは新しい現象を観測しています。
Scientists are observing a new phenomenon.
Verb 観測する (kansoku suru) in the -te iru form.
気象庁は明日の天気を観測する予定です。
The Meteorological Agency plans to observe tomorrow's weather.
Future tense of 観測する (kansoku suru).
この望遠鏡を使えば、遠くの銀河を観測できます。
With this telescope, we can observe distant galaxies.
Potential form 観測できる (kansoku dekiru - can observe).
専門家は、この地域の生態系を注意深く観測しています。
Experts are carefully observing the ecosystem of this region.
Noun 専門家 (senmonka - expert).
人工衛星は地球の気候変動を継続的に観測しています。
Satellites are continuously observing Earth's climate change.
Adverb 継続的に (keizokuteki ni) meaning continuously.
研究者たちは、深海生物の行動を観測するために潜水艦を使用しました。
Researchers used a submarine to observe the behavior of deep-sea creatures.
Noun 潜水艦 (sensuikan - submarine).
この装置は、微細な振動さえも観測することができます。
This device can observe even minute vibrations.
Adjective 微細な (bisai na) meaning minute or tiny.
私たちは、夜空に現れた珍しい光を観測しました。
We observed a rare light that appeared in the night sky.
Adjective 珍しい (mezurashii) meaning rare or unusual.
天文学者たちは、その恒星の活動を詳細に観測するために、最新鋭の望遠鏡を導入した。
Astronomers introduced state-of-the-art telescopes to observe the star's activity in detail.
Noun 最新鋭 (saishin'ei) meaning state-of-the-art.
地質学者は、活火山の噴火活動を継続的に観測し、その兆候を分析している。
Geologists are continuously observing the eruptive activity of the active volcano and analyzing its signs.
Noun 地質学者 (chishitsugakusha - geologist).
この研究では、海洋生物の移動パターンを衛星データを用いて観測する。
In this research, we will observe the migration patterns of marine life using satellite data.
Noun 海洋生物 (kaiyō seibutsu - marine life).
環境保護団体は、森林破壊の進行状況を厳密に観測している。
Environmental protection groups are strictly observing the progress of deforestation.
Adverb 厳密に (genmitsu ni) meaning strictly or rigorously.
観測されたデータに基づき、気象学者は異常気象の発生確率を予測した。
Based on the observed data, meteorologists predicted the probability of abnormal weather events occurring.
Noun 異常気象 (ijō kishō - abnormal weather).
宇宙望遠鏡は、これまで観測できなかった遠方の宇宙空間を観測することに成功した。
The space telescope succeeded in observing distant outer space that had never been observed before.
Noun 宇宙望遠鏡 (uchū bōenkyō - space telescope).
彼らは、未知のウイルスの拡散を観測し、その特性を解明しようとしている。
They are observing the spread of an unknown virus and trying to elucidate its characteristics.
Noun 未知のウイルス (michi no uirusu - unknown virus).
この実験では、物質の微細な変化を光学機器を用いて詳細に観測する必要がある。
In this experiment, it is necessary to observe minute changes in matter in detail using optical instruments.
Noun 光学機器 (kōgaku kiki - optical instruments).
本研究では、太陽フレアの発生メカニズムを詳細に観測し、その影響を評価することを目的とする。
This research aims to observe the generation mechanism of solar flares in detail and evaluate their impact.
Noun 太陽フレア (taiyō furea - solar flare).
宇宙物理学者は、ダークマターの存在を間接的に観測するための新たな手法を開発した。
Astrophysicists have developed a new method for indirectly observing the existence of dark matter.
Noun 宇宙物理学者 (uchū butsuri gakusha - astrophysicist).
生態学者は、絶滅危惧種の生息環境の変化を長期にわたり観測し、保全策を講じている。
Ecologists have been observing changes in the habitat of endangered species over a long period and are implementing conservation measures.
Noun 絶滅危惧種 (zetsumetsu kigushu - endangered species).
観測されたデータは、地球温暖化の進行速度が予想を上回っていることを示唆している。
The observed data suggests that the rate of global warming is exceeding expectations.
Noun 地球温暖化 (chikyū ondanka - global warming).
その研究所では、量子レベルでの現象を観測できる高度な実験装置を備えている。
That research institute is equipped with advanced experimental apparatus capable of observing phenomena at the quantum level.
Noun 量子レベル (ryōshi reberu - quantum level).
地磁気の変動を観測することで、地球内部の活動に関する貴重な情報が得られる。
By observing fluctuations in the Earth's magnetic field, valuable information about the Earth's internal activity can be obtained.
Noun 地磁気 (chijiki - Earth's magnetic field).
観測された宇宙マイクロ波背景放射のゆらぎは、宇宙の初期状態を理解する上で不可欠である。
The fluctuations in the observed cosmic microwave background radiation are indispensable for understanding the early state of the universe.
Noun 宇宙マイクロ波背景放射 (uchū maikuroha haikei hōsha - cosmic microwave background radiation).
このプロジェクトの目的は、未知の惑星の大気組成を詳細に観測し、生命存在の可能性を探ることである。
The objective of this project is to observe the atmospheric composition of an unknown planet in detail and explore the possibility of life.
Noun 大気組成 (taiki sosei - atmospheric composition).
最新の観測技術により、これまで検出不可能だった微弱な重力波を捉えることに成功した。
With the latest observation technology, we have succeeded in detecting faint gravitational waves that were previously undetectable.
Noun 重力波 (jūryokuha - gravitational waves).
長期間にわたる観測データは、銀河系の構造形成に関する我々の理解を飛躍的に深めた。
Long-term observational data have dramatically deepened our understanding of the structural formation of the Milky Way galaxy.
Noun 銀河系 (gingakei - Milky Way galaxy).
この研究は、超新星爆発の最終段階を詳細に観測し、その物理的プロセスを解明しようとするものである。
This research aims to observe the final stages of a supernova explosion in detail and elucidate its physical processes.
Noun 超新星爆発 (chōshinsei bakuhatsu - supernova explosion).
観測されたブラックホールの事象の地平線は、一般相対性理論の予測と驚くほど一致していた。
The observed event horizon of the black hole remarkably agreed with the predictions of general relativity.
Noun 事象の地平線 (jishō no chiheisen - event horizon).
地球外生命探査において、電波望遠鏡を用いた系外惑星からの信号を観測することは、極めて重要な手法である。
In the search for extraterrestrial life, observing signals from exoplanets using radio telescopes is an extremely important method.
Noun 系外惑星 (keigai wakusei - exoplanet).
観測された宇宙の膨張率のデータは、標準宇宙論モデルに新たな課題を提起している。
The data on the observed rate of cosmic expansion poses new challenges to the standard cosmological model.
Noun 宇宙の膨張率 (uchū no bōchōritsu - rate of cosmic expansion).
このプロジェクトでは、極域の氷床コアを掘削し、過去数十万年の気候変動を詳細に観測・分析する。
This project involves drilling ice cores in polar regions to observe and analyze climate change over the past hundreds of thousands of years in detail.
Noun 氷床コア (hyōshō koa - ice sheet core).
観測されたニュートリノの特性は、素粒子物理学の標準模型を超える現象を示唆している。
The observed properties of neutrinos suggest phenomena beyond the Standard Model of particle physics.
Noun ニュートリノ (nyūtorino - neutrino).
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
— Observed data; data collected through observation.
観測データに基づいて、新しい結論が得られました。(Kansoku dēta ni motozuite, atarashii ketsuron ga eraremashita.) - Based on the observed data, new conclusions were obtained.
— Observation results; the findings from an observation.
観測結果は予想通りでした。(Kansoku kekka wa yosō dōri deshita.) - The observation results were as expected.
— Observation point; a location where observations are made.
この観測地点からは、星がよく見える。(Kono kansoku chiten kara wa, hoshi ga yoku mieru.) - Stars can be seen well from this observation point.
— Observation instrument; equipment used for observation.
高精度の観測機器が必要です。(Kōseido no kansoku kiki ga hitsuyō desu.) - High-precision observation instruments are necessary.
— Range of observation; the scope or area that can be observed.
望遠鏡の観測範囲は非常に広い。(Bōenkyō no kansoku han'i wa hijō ni hiroi.) - The telescope's observation range is very wide.
— Observable; capable of being observed.
この現象は観測可能です。(Kono genshō wa kansoku kanō desu.) - This phenomenon is observable.
— Observation network; a system of interconnected observation points.
世界中に観測網が張り巡らされている。(Sekaijū ni kansoku mō ga harimegurasarete iru.) - An observation network is spread across the world.
— In the history of observation; in recorded history.
観測史上最も暑い日でした。(Kansoku shijō mottomo atsui hi deshita.) - It was the hottest day in recorded observation history.
— To continue observing.
研究者たちは、この変化を観測し続けるだろう。(Kenkyūsha-tachi wa, kono henka o kansoku shi tsuzukeru darō.) - The researchers will continue to observe this change.
— To cease observation; to stop observing.
悪天候のため、観測を中止せざるを得なかった。(Akutenkō no tame, kansoku o chūshi sezaru o enakatta.) - Due to bad weather, we had no choice but to cease observation.
Often Confused With
While both mean 'to observe', 観測する is more for scientific phenomena, measurements, and data collection. 観察する is often used for observing behavior, characteristics, or details, especially of living things, and can be less formal.
This is the general verb for 'to see' or 'to watch'. 観測する implies a much deeper, more systematic, and often scientific form of watching.
This specifically means 'to measure'. Observation (観測する) often involves measurement, but 測定する focuses solely on the act of quantifying.
Idioms & Expressions
— To stare intently; to watch with wide eyes, often out of surprise or keen interest. While not directly using 観測する, it describes a very focused form of watching.
彼は宝物を見つけたとき、目を皿にした。
Informal— To watch with keen interest or a predatory gaze, waiting for an opportunity. Implies a strategic and observant watch.
ライバル社の動向を虎視眈々と観測している。
Formal— To watch from a safe distance, without getting involved. It's a form of observation from a detached perspective.
争いを高みの見物するだけだ。
Neutral— Even a chance encounter, like brushing sleeves, is due to past karma. This implies that all interactions, even seemingly insignificant ones, are part of a larger observed pattern of fate.
日常生活の些細な出来事も、この言葉のように観測できる。
Proverbial— Armchair theorizing; a theory or plan that is impractical and not based on reality. It's the opposite of observation-based knowledge.
観測に基づかない議論は机上の空論になりがちだ。
Formal— Seeing once is better than hearing a hundred times. Emphasizes the value of direct observation over hearsay.
この現象は、百聞は一見に如かず、自分で観測することが重要だ。
Proverbial— As clear as seeing a fire; obviously true. Implies that something is so evident it needs no further observation.
彼の意図は、火を見るより明らかで、観測の必要もない。
Idiomatic— Onlooker; spectator. Someone who observes without participating.
事件の傍観者として、彼は状況を観測した。
Formal— To read the wind; to understand the prevailing mood or situation. Implies careful observation of subtle cues.
政治家は、世論を風を読むように観測する。
Figurative— Sharp-eyed; quick to notice things. Describes someone who is good at observation.
彼は目ざといので、些細な変化も観測できる。
DescriptiveEasily Confused
Both verbs relate to careful watching and gathering information.
観測する (kansoku suru) is typically used for scientific phenomena, astronomical events, weather patterns, or technical data, often involving measurement. 観察する (kansatsu suru) is more commonly used for observing the behavior, characteristics, or habits of living things, or for detailed examination of something in a more general or biological context. For example, you would 観測する a star, but you would 観察する a bird's nest.
天文学者は星を観測するが、生物学者は鳥の行動を観察する。
Both involve the act of seeing.
見る (miru) is the basic verb for 'to see' or 'to watch' and is used in countless everyday situations. 観測する (kansoku suru) is a much more specific and formal term, implying a scientific, systematic, and often prolonged observation with the intent of collecting data or understanding a phenomenon. You 'watch TV' (テレビを見る), but you 'observe seismic activity' (地震活動を観測する).
テレビを見るのは簡単だが、地震活動を観測するのは専門知識が必要だ。
Observation often involves taking measurements.
測定する (sokutei suru) specifically means 'to measure' a quantity (like temperature, distance, weight). 観測する (kansoku suru) is the broader act of observing, which may include taking measurements as part of the process. You might 観測する the temperature, but the act of getting the number is 測定する. For example, 'Scientists observed the temperature change' (科学者たちは気温の変化を観測した) implies they watched it happen, possibly measuring it.
気温を測定して、その変化を観測した。
Both involve watching.
監視する (kanshi suru) means 'to monitor' or 'to keep under surveillance', often implying security, control, or constant vigilance. It's used for things like security cameras, border patrols, or monitoring systems. 観測する (kansoku suru) is about scientific observation and data gathering, not control or security.
防犯カメラでビルを監視するが、望遠鏡で宇宙を観測する。
Both involve seeking information.
探査する (tansa suru) means 'to explore', 'to probe', or 'to investigate', often in a physical or geographical sense (like exploring a new area or searching for resources). 観測する (kansoku suru) is about systematically watching and recording data about existing phenomena. You might 探査する a new planet, and then 観測する its atmosphere.
宇宙船は未知の惑星を探査し、その大気を観測した。
Sentence Patterns
[Object] を 観測する。
科学者たちは、新しい星を観測した。
[Instrument] で [Object] を 観測する。
望遠鏡で遠い銀河を観測する。
[Location] で [Object] を 観測する。
山頂で気象現象を観測する。
[Object] の 観測データ
観測データによると、気温が上昇している。
[Object] を 観測することができる。
この装置は、微細な振動も観測することができる。
[Object] を 詳細に 観測する。
天文学者は、その惑星を詳細に観測した。
[Object] を 継続的に 観測する。
衛星は地球の環境を継続的に観測している。
[Object] の 観測結果
観測結果は、我々の仮説を支持している。
Word Family
Nouns
Verbs
Related
How to Use It
High in scientific and technical contexts, low in general conversation.
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Using 観測する for casual watching.
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Using 見る (miru) for casual watching.
観測する is a formal, scientific verb. For example, saying 'I observed my friend's new haircut' (友達の新しい髪型を観測した) is incorrect; you would say '友達の新しい髪型を見た' (Tomodachi no atarashii kamigata o mita).
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Confusing 観測する with 測定する (sokutei suru - to measure).
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Using 測定する for the act of measuring, and 観測する for the overall observation process.
While observation often involves measurement, 測定する is specifically about obtaining a numerical value. For instance, 'We measured the temperature' (気温を測定した), but 'We observed the temperature change over time' (気温の変化を観測した).
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Using 観測する for observing behavior or characteristics.
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Using 観察する (kansatsu suru) for observing behavior or characteristics.
観測する is typically for phenomena, data, or physical events. For example, 'The scientist observed the bird's nesting habits' should be '生物学者は鳥の営巣行動を観察した' (Seibutsugakusha wa tori no eisō kōdō o kansatsu shita), not 観測した.
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Incorrect particle usage with 観測する.
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Using the correct particles (e.g., を for the object, で for instrument/location).
A common error is omitting the object particle or using the wrong particle for the instrument or location. For example, '望遠鏡観測する' is wrong; it should be '望遠鏡<strong>で</strong>宇宙を観測する' (Bōenkyō <strong>de</strong> uchū o kansoku suru).
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Overusing 観測する in formal writing where a simpler verb is sufficient.
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Choosing the most appropriate verb for the context.
While 観測する is formal, it should be used when its specific meaning of scientific or detailed observation is intended. Sometimes, a simpler verb like 見る or even 記録する (kiroku suru - to record) might be more fitting depending on the nuance required.
Tips
Formal vs. Informal
Remember that 観測する is a formal verb. Avoid using it in casual conversations with friends or family. For everyday watching, stick to 見る (miru).
Distinguish from 観察する
While similar, 観測する often implies measurement and scientific data collection, whereas 観察する can be more about watching behavior or characteristics, especially of living things.
Learn Common Collocations
Phrases like 詳細に観測する (observe in detail) or 継続的に観測する (observe continuously) add precision. Learning these will help you use the verb more effectively.
Practice Pronunciation
Pay attention to the pronunciation, especially the 'n' sound in 'kan' and the soft 'su' and 'ru'. Consistent practice will make it sound more natural.
Use Mnemonics
Associate the kanji with images or stories. For example, 'Can' (観) your 'sock' (測) measure the stars? This helps link the meaning to the visual form.
Read Scientific Texts
The best way to internalize its usage is by reading Japanese articles, books, or websites about science, astronomy, or meteorology.
Listen to Documentaries
Watch Japanese documentaries on nature or science. You'll hear 観測する used frequently in its natural context.
Understand Particle Usage
Learn how particles like を (o), で (de), and に (ni) are used with 観測する to specify the object, location, instrument, or time of observation.
Apply in Writing/Speaking
When you have an opportunity to write or speak about scientific topics, consciously try to incorporate 観測する to solidify your understanding and usage.
Memorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine an astronomer, wearing a large hat (観, kan - like a 'can'opy for the head), carefully using a measuring tape (測, soku - like 'sock' for measuring length) to observe the distance to a star. The hat represents the wide view, and the measuring tape represents the scientific measurement involved in the observation.
Visual Association
Picture a scientist in a lab coat, holding a clipboard and a telescope. The clipboard represents recording observations (観), and the telescope represents the tool for detailed observation and measurement (測).
Word Web
Challenge
Try to explain a simple scientific observation (like watching a plant grow or observing the weather) using the word 観測する and its related nouns like 観測データ and 観測結果.
Word Origin
The word 観測する (kansoku suru) is composed of two kanji: 観 (kan) and 測 (soku). 観 comes from the radical 'seeing' (見) and implies viewing, looking at, or contemplation. 測 has the radical 'water' (氵) and implies measuring, gauging, or estimating, often by taking soundings or measurements. Together, they form the concept of careful, measured observation.
Original meaning: The combination of 'viewing' and 'measuring' suggests an act of looking with the intent to quantify or understand through measurement.
Sino-Japanese (Kanji-based)Cultural Context
The term itself is neutral and scientific. Its application, however, should be context-appropriate. Using it for trivial matters could sound overly formal or even pretentious.
In English-speaking contexts, 'observe' carries a similar scientific weight, but casual watching is often 'watch' or 'look'. The distinction is maintained.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
Astronomy and Space Exploration
- 星を観測する (hoshi o kansoku suru)
- 銀河を観測する (ginga o kansoku suru)
- 宇宙空間を観測する (uchū kūkan o kansoku suru)
Meteorology and Environmental Science
- 気象を観測する (kishō o kansoku suru)
- 気温を観測する (kion o kansoku suru)
- 大気汚染を観測する (taiki osen o kansoku suru)
Biology and Ecology
- 動植物を観測する (dōshokubutsu o kansoku suru)
- 生態系を観測する (seitaikei o kansoku suru)
- 生物の行動を観測する (seibutsu no kōdō o kansoku suru)
Technology and Engineering
- 機械の動作を観測する (kikai no dōsa o kansoku suru)
- システムのパフォーマンスを観測する (shisutemu no pafōmansu o kansoku suru)
- 信号を観測する (shingō o kansoku suru)
Geology and Earth Science
- 地震活動を観測する (jishin katsudō o kansoku suru)
- 地殻変動を観測する (chikaku hendō o kansoku suru)
- 海流を観測する (kairyū o kansoku suru)
Conversation Starters
"What kind of scientific observations are most interesting to you?"
"Have you ever seen a documentary about astronomical observations?"
"If you could observe any natural phenomenon, what would it be?"
"How important is careful observation in learning a new skill?"
"What are some examples of everyday 'observations' that aren't scientific?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you observed something closely for a specific purpose. What did you observe, and why?
Imagine you are a scientist. What phenomenon would you dedicate your life to observing, and what tools would you use?
How does careful observation differ from just looking at something? Provide an example.
Reflect on a time when an observation led to a significant discovery or understanding for you.
Write about the importance of observing the environment around you. What can you learn from it?
Frequently Asked Questions
10 questions観測する (kansoku suru) is typically used for scientific observation of phenomena, like weather patterns, celestial bodies, or physical processes, often involving measurement. 観察する (kansatsu suru) is more about observing behavior, characteristics, or subtle details, especially of living things, or for general careful watching. For instance, you would 観測する the temperature, but 観察する a cat's behavior.
No, 観測する is a formal and scientific term. For everyday watching, use 見る (miru) or 眺める (nagameru).
Common subjects include astronomical objects (stars, planets), meteorological phenomena (weather, temperature), geological events (earthquakes), biological processes (plant growth in a controlled study), and technical data from instruments.
Not always, but it often is. The key is the systematic and detailed nature of the observation, which frequently requires tools like telescopes, sensors, or specialized equipment. Even without instruments, the observation must be methodical and data-oriented.
It's a Group 2 (ichidan) verb, so it conjugates like 食べる (taberu). For example: 観測する (plain form), 観測します (polite form), 観測した (past plain), 観測しました (past polite), 観測して (te-form).
Common ones include 観測データ (kansoku dēta - observed data), 観測結果 (kansoku kekka - observation results), 観測所 (kansokujo - observatory), and 観測機器 (kansokuki - observation instrument).
Generally no, unless it's in a very specific scientific or medical context, like observing physiological responses under controlled conditions. For observing people's actions or behavior, 観察する (kansatsu suru) or even 見る (miru) is more appropriate.
Seeing (見る) is passive or general. Observing (観測する) is active, intentional, detailed, and often involves measurement and recording for the purpose of scientific understanding or data collection.
Yes, especially in news related to science, astronomy, meteorology, or environmental issues. For example, 'The satellite observed changes in the ice caps.'
観測する is about watching and recording existing phenomena. 探査する (tansa suru) is about exploring, investigating, or searching for something new, like exploring a new planet or searching for resources. You might 探査 a region and then 観測する specific elements within it.
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Summary
観測する (kansoku suru) is the verb for conducting scientific or detailed observations, involving careful watching and often measurement, distinct from casual seeing.
- Formal verb for scientific or detailed observation.
- Implies careful, systematic watching and data collection.
- Used in astronomy, meteorology, biology, and technology.
- Distinct from general 'seeing' (見る).
Formal vs. Informal
Remember that 観測する is a formal verb. Avoid using it in casual conversations with friends or family. For everyday watching, stick to 見る (miru).
Scientific Context is Key
The most natural place to use 観測する is in contexts related to science, research, technology, or detailed monitoring of natural phenomena. Think about astronomers, meteorologists, or engineers.
Distinguish from 観察する
While similar, 観測する often implies measurement and scientific data collection, whereas 観察する can be more about watching behavior or characteristics, especially of living things.
Learn Common Collocations
Phrases like 詳細に観測する (observe in detail) or 継続的に観測する (observe continuously) add precision. Learning these will help you use the verb more effectively.
Related Content
More academic words
絶対的
B2Absolute; not qualified or diminished in any way; total.
絶対的に
B1In a complete, unconditional, or conclusive manner; absolutely.
抽象的だ
B1Abstract; existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence.
抽象
B2Existing in thought or as an idea but not having a physical or concrete existence. It refers to generalizing or extracting the essence of something away from specific details.
抽象的に
B1In an abstract or theoretical manner.
学術的な
B1Academic, scholarly; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的だ
B1Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術的
B2Academic; relating to education and scholarship.
学術
B1Academia; scholarship; relating to scholarly pursuits.
学力
B1Academic ability; a person's level of knowledge and skill in academic subjects.
