Synonyms for

Contemplating

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

Definition

Thinking deeply and at length about something

Synonyms & similar words

muse ruminate excogitate mull meditate study reflect speculate contemplate ponder considering pondering meditating reflecting deliberating examining cogitating ruminating brooding speculating wondering reviewing scrutinizing surveying appraising assessing evaluating analyzing

Synonyms by register

Formal

pondering considering musing deliberating

Informal

thinking about mulling over chewing on weighing up

Literary

brooding ruminating cogitating

Antonyms

ignoring disregarding neglecting rushing acting deciding dismissing

Common collocations

  • contemplating the future
  • contemplating a change
  • contemplating a move
  • contemplating life
  • contemplating the meaning
  • contemplating a decision
  • contemplating the universe

Word family

noun contemplation
verb contemplate
adjective contemplative
adverb contemplatively

Usage note

Often used to describe deep or prolonged thought. Can imply indecision or serious consideration of options.

Compare "contemplating" with another word →

Example sentences

  1. I am contemplating what to have for breakfast.
  2. She is contemplating whether to take the job offer or not.
  3. He spent hours contemplating the meaning of life.
  4. Contemplating the stars always makes me feel peaceful.
  5. The artist was contemplating the blank canvas before beginning to paint.

Quotes

  • Contemplation often makes life miserable. We should act more, think less, and stop watching ourselves live.
  • Contemplation is a luxury of the middle class, the very rich.
  • There is no contemplation that is not ultimately social.

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