Schauen and beobachten are two German verbs that both involve looking, but they differ in meaning, usage, and intensity. Here’s a concise comparison to clear up the confusion:
- Schauen means “to look” or “to glance.” It’s a more general verb for directing your eyes at something. It often implies a brief or casual look.
- Beobachten means “to observe.” It suggests watching something carefully and attentively, often over a period of time, to notice details or patterns.
Usage examples:
- Schauen: Ich schaue aus dem Fenster. — I’m looking out the window.
- Beobachten: Ich beobachte die Vögel im Garten. — I’m observing the birds in the garden.
Summary:
- Use schauen for simple, general looking or glancing.
- Use beobachten when you want to express careful, deliberate observation.
The German verbs schauen and beobachten both involve looking, but schauen is used for general or casual looking, while beobachten implies careful and attentive observation over time.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
