To observe scientifically or systematically in order to measure and record data.
Word in 30 Seconds
- Used for scientific data gathering and measurement.
- Commonly used in meteorology and astronomy.
- Implies objective recording of phenomena.
Overview
- 1概要：観測するとは、単に「見る」こととは異なり、科学的な目的や調査の意図を持って対象を継続的に観察し、データを記録する行為です。2) 使用パターン：主に「〜を観測する」という形で用いられ、気象庁や研究機関が主語になることが多いです。また、変化の度合いを測る際にも使われます。3) 一般的な文脈：天気予報（気温、降水量）、天体観測（星の動き）、地震観測、あるいは社会現象の推移を追う際など、数値化や記録化が伴う場面で頻出します。4) 類語との比較：「観察する」は対象の様子を詳しく見ること（人や動物の行動など）に焦点を当てますが、「観測する」は計測やデータ収集といった、より技術的・科学的な側面を強調します。
Examples
気象庁が各地の気温を観測する。
formalThe Meteorological Agency observes temperatures in various regions.
天体観測のために山へ行った。
everydayI went to the mountains for astronomical observation.
地震の揺れを観測した。
academicWe observed the tremors of the earthquake.
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
観測史上最高
Highest in recorded history
観測地点
Observation point
Often Confused With
Refers to watching behavior or details closely without necessarily using measurement tools. It is broader and more common in daily life.
Grammar Patterns
How to Use It
Usage Notes
This word is formal and usually associated with scientific or professional contexts. It is rarely used in casual conversation. If you are not measuring anything, avoid using it.
Common Mistakes
Learners often use 'kansoku' when they mean 'kansatsu' (watching someone). Remember that 'kansoku' needs data or instruments involved. Using it to describe watching a person is unnatural.
Tips
Focus on data and measurement
Think of 'kansoku' as 'observation with instruments.' It is almost always tied to gathering facts or numbers.
Avoid using for casual looking
Do not use 'kansoku' for simply looking at someone or something in daily life. Use 'miru' or 'kansatsu' instead.
Common in Japanese weather reports
You will hear this daily on Japanese news when mentioning temperatures or earthquake intensities. It is a very formal and reliable term.
Word Origin
Derived from Sino-Japanese roots: 'Kan' (observe) and 'Soku' (measure/calculate). It literally means to observe by measuring.
Cultural Context
In Japan, due to frequent earthquakes and typhoons, the term 'kansoku' appears daily in public broadcasts. It carries a sense of safety and professional responsibility.
Memory Tip
Think of 'Kan' (see) + 'Soku' (measure). You are looking at something to measure it.
Frequently Asked Questions
3 questions「観察」は人や物の様子を注意深く見ること全般に使われますが、「観測」は機器を用いた測定やデータ収集を伴う科学的な意味合いが強くなります。
ニュースや天気予報では非常に一般的ですが、日常のカジュアルな会話で「友達の様子を観測する」と言うと少し大げさで機械的な印象を与えるため、あまり使われません。
基本的には自然現象や物理的な対象に使います。人に対して使う場合は、心理学的な実験や特殊な調査の文脈に限られます。
Test Yourself
気象庁は、今朝から強い台風を___している。
台風の動きや強さを測定・記録するため、「観測」が最も適切です。
Score: /1
Summary
To observe scientifically or systematically in order to measure and record data.
- Used for scientific data gathering and measurement.
- Commonly used in meteorology and astronomy.
- Implies objective recording of phenomena.
Focus on data and measurement
Think of 'kansoku' as 'observation with instruments.' It is almost always tied to gathering facts or numbers.
Avoid using for casual looking
Do not use 'kansoku' for simply looking at someone or something in daily life. Use 'miru' or 'kansatsu' instead.
Common in Japanese weather reports
You will hear this daily on Japanese news when mentioning temperatures or earthquake intensities. It is a very formal and reliable term.
Examples
3 of 3気象庁が各地の気温を観測する。
The Meteorological Agency observes temperatures in various regions.
天体観測のために山へ行った。
I went to the mountains for astronomical observation.
地震の揺れを観測した。
We observed the tremors of the earthquake.
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.
