General:
* Regarder: This is the most common and general word for "to look at." It can be used in most situations.
Specific Actions:
* Voir: Means "to see" or "to notice." It is more about perception than active looking.
* Observer: Means "to observe" or "to watch carefully." This implies a more deliberate and attentive look.
* Contempler: Means "to contemplate" or "to gaze at." This suggests a more thoughtful or prolonged look.
Example sentences:
* Je regarde la télévision. (I am watching TV.) - *Regarder*
* Je vois un oiseau. (I see a bird.) - *Voir*
* J'observe le ciel. (I am observing the sky.) - *Observer*
* J'ai contemplé la mer. (I contemplated the sea.) - *Contempler*