Synonyms for

Contemplate

Verb / ˈkɑ:ntʌˌmpleɪt / Another word for contemplate — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

To think deeply and carefully about something.

Synonyms & similar words

speculate thinkover muse ruminate study excogitate mullover ponder chewover meditate reflect mull ponder meditate ruminate consider reflect deliberate scrutinize analyze examine assess evaluate appraise survey peruse

Synonyms by register

Formal

ponder deliberate muse ruminate

Informal

think about chew over mull over consider

Literary

brood revolve

Antonyms

disregard ignore neglect shun dismiss overlook

Common collocations

  • contemplate existence
  • contemplate the meaning
  • contemplate the future
  • contemplate a change
  • contemplate a decision
  • contemplate the universe
  • contemplate the consequences

Word family

noun contemplation
verb contemplate
adjective contemplative
adverb contemplatively

Usage note

Contemplate implies deep and serious thought, often about abstract or profound subjects. It is generally more formal than 'think about'.

Example sentences

  1. I like to contemplate the stars at night.
  2. She would often contemplate her next move in the game.
  3. He spent hours contemplating his decision.
  4. We should contemplate the consequences of our actions.
  5. She sat quietly, contemplating what she had just heard.

Quotes

  • The world is full of magical things, patiently waiting for our senses to grow sharper. - W.B. Yeats
  • The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and science. - Albert Einstein
  • To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment. - Ralph Waldo Emerson

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