Japanese by Example
Learning through examples in manga

Observing with 観る

() means to look at something intentionally, to focus one’s attention on something.

In comparison, ()る is more passive and unconcious (such as casually watching television) whereas ()る is more active and aware, observing (such as carefully watching television).

Examples

アオハライド » Volume 12 » Page 42
からかい上手の(元)高木さん » Volume 1 » Page 113

Supplemental examples

俺物語!! » Volume 3 » Page 170