Something is objective when it can be seen to be present by more than one person. The term usually refers to something that can be seen, or assessed as being present by a medical professional, as well as being experienced by the patient. The patient’s experience is referred to as being subjectiveSomething is subjective when it is felt by the individual. Another person cannot perceive whatever sensation it is. All symptoms are subjective. One person cannot directly experience another individual’s discomfort. There is no means by which we can prove or disprove that somebody is indeed experiencing the symptoms that she or he describes. See also objective.. A patient may complain of the subjectiveSomething is subjective when it is felt by the individual. Another person cannot perceive whatever sensation it is. All symptoms are subjective. One person cannot directly experience another individual’s discomfort. There is no means by which we can prove or disprove that somebody is indeed experiencing the symptoms that she or he describes. See also objective. symptomA symptom is anything of which a patient complains with respect to his or her own body. It may also be obvious to an observer, for example a rash, but it may be entirely subjective, such as a pain somewhere or an emotional feeling. of pain in one knee. A doctor may notice swelling of the knee, which is an objective, physical signSomething that a doctor notices when examining a patient. It may be obvious to the patient as well, such as a weak muscle, in which case it can also be a symptom. It may, on the other hand, only be obvious to the trained eye, for example an altered body reflex..