<p>This paper primarily investigates the observer-based exponential synchronization method for fuzzy cellular neural networks (FCNNs) with immeasurable states. Given that neural network data cannot be fully measured in practical applications, to ensure exponential synchronization between the drive and response FCNNs, this paper designs an observer-based controller utilizing the network outputs. Furthermore, a direct analysis approach grounded in solutions to the error systems is advanced, which not only obviates the necessity of constructing Lyapunov functions but also streamlines the deduction of synchronization criteria, appreciably lessening workload and computational intricacy. Ultimately, the theoretical and practical merit of the advanced approach is corroborated via a numerical illustration.</p>