WordGarden.iocontemplate
C1Pronunciation
UK
- /kˈɒntɪmplˌeɪt/
US
- /ˈkɑntəmˌpleɪt/
Meanings
Verb
to think deeply or carefully about something
to consider doing something or regard it as possible
to look at something thoughtfully for a while
Beyond the definition
Sometimes life throws you a question that doesn't have an easy answer—like what truly makes you happy or how best to help a friend in need. When you contemplate something, you take time to think about it carefully, turning it over in your mind instead of rushing to a quick answer. It's more than just listing pros and cons; it suggests a deeper, quieter kind of thinking. A philosopher might contemplate the meaning of life, while an artist might contemplate the perfect color for a painting. You can also contemplate doing something—like taking a new job or making a major purchase—before you commit.
To contemplate means to think deeply and seriously about something. It is far more than casual consideration; it involves extended thought, often accompanied by a sense of wonder, gravity, or even uncertainty. For example, "She sat by the window, contemplating her future," suggests she was lost in a profound reflection on the paths lying ahead.
The word contemplate is versatile, applying to both concrete decisions and abstract ideas. You might contemplate a difficult life choice, such as whether to move to a new city, or you might contemplate a philosophical mystery, such as the nature of time. It often implies a quiet, reflective process—taking the time to examine every facet of an issue from a distance.
Beyond mere reflection, the word suggests a deliberate effort to understand something complex or to envision a future action. It is frequently used when someone is considering doing something but hasn't yet committed: "He was contemplating a trip around the world." In this sense, it bridges the gap between a passing thought and a firm decision.
Historically, "contemplate" stems from the Latin root contemplari, which originally referred to marking out a space for observation. This origin highlights the essence of the word: creating a mental space to observe and study an idea thoroughly before forming an opinion. So, whether you are wrestling with a tough problem or simply taking a moment to reflect on your day, contemplating is about engaging in the highest form of thoughtful consideration.
Examples
- 1
Private reflection
He stood at the window, contemplating the city below.
- 2
Life change
After two years of commuting, she's contemplating moving closer to work.
- Patterncontemplate doing X
think seriously about doing it
- 3
Family planning
We hadn't really contemplated the cost of childcare when we made the plan.
- 4
Business decision
The company is contemplating whether to open a second office.
- Patterncontemplate whether + clause
think carefully about whether something should happen
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Personal values
During his long recovery, he had time to contemplate what mattered most to him.
See also
Similar
Shades of meaning
- reflect on
- deliberate
- mull over
Contrast
- ignore
- rush into
Used with (collocations)
- contemplate the possibility
- contemplate doing something
- pause to contemplate
Word family
Explore
- reflection
- decision-making
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- contemplateverb
Forms
- contemplating-ing formverb
- contemplatedpast tenseverb
- contemplatesverb