contemplating

American

[kon-tuhm-pley-ting, -tem-] / ˈkɒn təmˌpleɪ tɪŋ, -tɛm- /

adjective

observing, studying, or thinking deeply about something.

A stronger spirit and sense of purpose help shift the contemplating mind into a more action-orientated self.

noun

the act of observing, studying, or thinking deeply about something.

After some more contemplating over the last few days, I now know what I'm going to do.

Other Word Forms

Derived Forms

contemplatingly

adverb

Etymology

Origin of contemplating

First recorded in 1580–90; contemplat(e) ( def. ) + -ing ² ( def. ) for the adjective; contemplat(e) ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. ) for the noun

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.

MSG Sports is contemplating separating the Knicks and Rangers through a tax-free spinoff, which could unlock more value for investors.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

Hours before the show’s opening, Baseman was still contemplating what else he could add.

From Los Angeles Times • May 12, 2026

Sapna said Sougat became financially reliant on his parents and in-laws, who had now exhausted their savings and were contemplating selling their homes.

From BBC • May 4, 2026

Edmond de Rothschild said it isn’t contemplating a merger or sale.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

I was just contemplating opening it so I could slam it shut again when a sharp knock behind me about made me jump out of my skin.

From "Glitch" by Laura Martin

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023