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

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.

Munger decided to adjust his life, asking others to read to him and contemplating other steps.

From The Wall Street Journal

Like a particularly manic solver, he attacks the subject in an across-and-down fashion, here contemplating the impact of AI on the game, there considering what role crossword-style wordplay had on Modernist writers like T.S.

From Los Angeles Times

“Mexico has become the new wall,” said Sanabria, who said that last week’s deaths will send a deterrent message to others contemplating the arduous journey.

From Los Angeles Times

Biden has said he is contemplating a visit to Nashville, though the White House said no plans have been finalized.

From Washington Post

Many of the world's top central banks are openly contemplating an early end to rate hikes, not least because of the recent financial turmoil.

From Reuters

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