remark
Definitions
A spoken or written comment; an observation
评论，言论，意见
To say something as a comment; to observe
评论说，谈及
To notice or take note of something
注意到，察觉
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedre- (again, intently) + mark (to note) = to 'mark again,' i.e. to notice something and point it out in words. The path runs through attention: your eye catches it, then your mouth marks it for others. That is why a remark is a casual spoken observation, and 'remark on' something means single it out as worth noticing.
Root mark still carries 8 more wordsUsage Guide
- remark + that-clause: He remarked that the room felt cold.
- remark on / upon something: Everyone remarked on her new haircut (= commented on).
- The noun is most common in 'make a remark,' 'a passing remark.'
Note: remark is neutral-to-formal; for blunt comments use 'comment,' for sharp ones 'observe' or 'note.'
Example Sentences
- 1.
He made a passing remark about the weather and moved on.
- 2.
Several guests remarked on how quiet the new neighbourhood was.
- 3.
Her remark was meant as a joke, but no one laughed.
- 4.
I couldn't help but remark that the prices had doubled.
Easily Confused
remark vs comment — Both mean to say something briefly about a topic, but comment is the everyday default (leave a comment, no comment), while remark sounds slightly more formal or literary and often implies noticing first ('he remarked on the silence'). A comment can be invited or solicited; a remark is usually spontaneous.
Synonym Comparison
- remark — a brief, often spontaneous observation said aloud
- comment — the everyday word, can be written or spoken, invited or not
- observe — slightly formal, stresses having noticed something
- note — to mention briefly, often in writing
- mention — to refer to something in passing