contemplate

[kon-tuhm-pleyt, -tem-]

verb (used with object)

contemplated, contemplating 

1. to look at or view with continued attention; observe or study thoughtfully.

   to contemplate the stars.

   Synonyms: survey, regard, behold

2. to consider thoroughly; think fully or deeply about.

   to contemplate a difficult problem.

   Synonyms: ponder, study

3. to have as a purpose; intend.

   The District Attorney's office does not contemplate any charges.

   Synonyms: plan, design

4. to have in view as a future event.

   to contemplate buying a new car.

verb (used without object)

contemplated, contemplating 

1. to think studiously; consider deliberately; meditate.

contemplate

/ -təm-, ˈkɒntɛmˌpleɪt /

verb

1. to think about intently and at length; consider calmly

2. (intr) to think intently and at length, esp for spiritual reasons; meditate

3. to look at thoughtfully; observe pensively

4. to have in mind as a possibility

   to contemplate changing jobs

Other Word Forms

• contemplator noun
• precontemplate verb
• recontemplate verb
• uncontemplated adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of contemplate¹

First recorded in 1585–95; from Latin contemplātus, past participle of contemplāre, contemplārī “to survey, observe,” equivalent to con- “with, together” + templ(um) “space marked off for augural observation” + -ātus past participle suffix; con-, temple ¹, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of contemplate¹

C16: from Latin contemplāre, from templum _temple ¹

Example Sentences

He wrote in the caption that he was “sorry to all of you who had to contemplate a symbol of hate over the past 48 hours.”

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Gradually Mr. Berry’s writing has become pared back and reflective, almost akin to homilies that use the examples of the past to contemplate an uncertain future.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

According to government disclosures and outside reporting, the administration is contemplating two major changes to disability standards, which it describes generally as “improvements to the disability adjudication process.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The judge said Willoughby's death was "specifically contemplated and intended" by Plumb.

Read more on BBC

“Additional funding and material policy support are actively being contemplated by Congress. The volatility of the past week will place additional emphasis and urgency on this effort,” said analyst Ellen Ehrnrooth.

Read more on Barron's

Related Words

• aim 
• consider 
• envisage 
• foresee 
• intend 
• mean 
• mull over 
• ponder 
• propose 
• think of www.thesaurus.com
• weigh