observatory
/əb'zə:vətri/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A structure or building designed and equipped for observing astronomical phenomena: A specialized facility housing telescopes and other instruments for studying celestial objects like stars, planets, and galaxies.
- A structure commanding a wide view of its surroundings: A building or tower situated in a high place, providing an extensive panoramic view, often used for general observation or sightseeing.
Examples of Usage
- Astronomical Observatory:
- The new observatory has a powerful telescope for studying distant galaxies.
- They visited the mountain-top observatory to see the stars more clearly.
- General Observation Structure:
- The old castle's tower served as an observatory for watching the coastline.
- The scenic overlook features a small observatory for tourists to enjoy the valley view.
Advanced Usage
- "To be under observation": While not a direct phrase with "observatory," the concept is related. An observatory is a place from which observation is conducted.
- The suspect's house was under observation from a nearby hilltop observatory.
- "Observatory data": Refers to the scientific information collected from an observatory's instruments.
- The research paper was based on ten years of observatory data.
Variants and Related Words
- Observe (verb): To watch carefully, especially to learn something.
- Scientists observe the stars through telescopes.
- Observation (noun): 1. The action or process of observing. 2. A remark or statement based on something observed.
- Her observation of the bird's behavior was very detailed.
- Observational (adjective): Relating to or based on observation.
- The study used observational methods.
Synonyms
- Lookout: A place from which to keep watch or view the landscape.
- Watchtower: A high tower from which people can look out for enemies, fires, etc.
- Planetarium: A building with a dome where images of stars, planets, and constellations are projected for public education (related but distinct from an observatory).
Related Phrases
(Note: "Observatory" itself is not commonly used in phrasal verbs. Related phrases involve the act of observing.) - To keep under observation: To watch someone or something closely over time. - The doctors decided to keep the patient under observation overnight.
Related Idioms
(Note: There are no common idioms directly using the word "observatory." Idioms are more closely related to the verb "observe.") - A bird's-eye view: A view seen from high above. This is the type of view an observatory might provide. - From the observatory, we had a bird's-eye view of the entire city.
Noun
- a structure commanding a wide view of its surroundings
- a building designed and equipped to observe astronomical phenomena