observar

Observar is a Spanish verb meaning to observe, watch, or notice with attention. It also means to comply with rules, laws, or customs, and to observe or commemorate a holiday or event. In everyday use, it can describe watching someone or something carefully, as well as behaving according to standards or traditions.

From Latin observāre, from ob- toward + servāre to keep, guard, or preserve, the term entered Old Spanish with the sense of keeping in view or paying attention. Its core meaning remains "to watch or notice" while expanding to "to follow" or "to honor" a rule or ritual.

Observar is a regular -ar verb. Present: observo, observas, observa, observamos, observáis, observan. Preterite: observé, observaste, observó, observamos, observasteis, observaron. Imperfect: observaba, observabas, observaba, observábamos, observabais, observaban. Subjunctive present: observe, observes, observe, observemos, observéis, observen. Imperative: observa, observe, observemos, observad, observen. Related forms include la observación (observation), el observador (observer), y el observatorio (observatory).

Usages examples include observar a alguien o algo (to watch or study someone or something); observar las reglas (to follow the rules); observar un eclipse (to observe or watch an eclipse); observar un día festivo (to observe a holiday). The phrase observar que introduces a reported observation, as in “Observo que…” to indicate that one has noticed something.