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Synonyms

thoughtful

American  
[thawt-fuhl] / ˈθɔt fəl /

adjective

  1. showing consideration for others; considerate.

    Synonyms:
    solicitous, attentive
  2. characterized by or manifesting careful thought.

    a thoughtful essay.

  3. occupied with or given to thought; contemplative; meditative; reflective.

    in a thoughtful mood.

  4. careful, heedful, or mindful.

    to be thoughtful of one's safety.


thoughtful British  
/ ˈθɔːtfʊl /

adjective

  1. considerate in the treatment of other people

  2. showing careful thought

  3. pensive; reflective

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Related Words

Thoughtful, considerate mean taking thought for the comfort and the good of others. Thoughtful implies providing little attentions, offering services, or in some way looking out for the comfort or welfare of others: It was thoughtful of you to send the flowers. Considerate implies sparing others annoyance or discomfort, and being careful not to hurt their feelings: not considerate of his family.

Other Word Forms

  • overthoughtful adjective
  • overthoughtfully adverb
  • thoughtfully adverb
  • thoughtfulness noun
  • unthoughtful adjective
  • unthoughtfully adverb

Etymology

Origin of thoughtful

First recorded in 1150–1200; Middle English; thought 1 + -ful

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

People who know Selig described him as buttoned-up and cordial, with a thoughtful rather than dogmatic approach to the legal questions around crypto and prediction markets.

From The Wall Street Journal

Fawaz is articulate and thoughtful, with a hint of theatrical flair that reflects his time at acting school.

From BBC

“Where Charles was sensitive and thoughtful, Andrew was macho, confident and extroverted,” wrote Andrew Lownie, who chronicled the prince’s life in a recent book called “Entitled.”

From The Wall Street Journal

He’s thoughtful and responsive throughout as he reflects on his life and career, which spanned more than three decades.

From Los Angeles Times

Andrew was the loud, bullish, outgoing child, said to be the favourite of his mother, while Charles was the thoughtful, introspective, serious older brother, carrying the weight of responsibility as heir.

From BBC