English help: how can I explain the difference between to see and to watch?

[WestWorld]

Please help T-T

[caipirinhas]

to see is just to use your eyes to view something.

 

to watch takes intention and indicates an action that you are following something with your eyes and observing it. 

 

You see a cat run across the street, but you watch a movie.

 

technically you can watch a cat run across the street, but it implies something different - that you follow its action with intention. 

[café]

the main difference is see = unexpected and fleeting, watch= planned and lasting. You accidentally see a speeding car while you're taking a walk but you watch a movie with your friend.

[Ego ista]

Well to watch is looking at something with purpose to see is not necessarily with purpose it’s just coincidentally in your line of vision I guess?

[dux]

"to see" is strictly vision. if it came in front of your eyes, and your eyes are open, you are seeing it.

To watch involves more senses. It requires your attention, you to be absorbing information, your focus.

 

I see the TV -- its in my line of vision

Im watching TV --- im focusing on the events of whatevers going on on the TV

[Faces]

Please help T-T

 

what's your first language?

[Ddeona Oneul Bame]

You can see anything, but you don't have to necessarily be paying attention to it actively

 

To watch means you're putting forth effort to see it

[Maphisto40]

To see is passive, to watch is active.