verb HSK 4
Traditional 觀看
to watch · to view · to observe
Meaning
观看 means to watch or view something, typically with attention and interest. It's more formal than the simple verb 看 (kàn) and often used for watching performances, sports events, exhibitions, or other organized activities where you are a spectator.
Usage
观看 is commonly used in written Chinese and formal speech. It implies being a spectator or audience member rather than casual looking. Frequently appears in contexts like watching movies, performances, sports matches, or visiting exhibitions. More formal than 看 alone.
Examples
- 01我们去体育馆观看了一场精彩的篮球比赛。.We went to the stadium to watch an exciting basketball game.
- 02欢迎大家前来观看我们的文艺演出。.Everyone is welcome to come watch our cultural performance.
Characters
Common collocations
- 观看比赛to watch a competition/match
- 观看演出to watch a performance
- 观看电影to watch a movie
- 现场观看to watch on-site/in person
Antonyms
Origin
Both characters relate to looking and seeing. 观 originally depicted looking carefully, while 看 combines hand (手) over eye (目), suggesting shading one's eyes to see better. Together they emphasize attentive, purposeful viewing.