thoughtful

[thawt-fuhl]

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

/ ˈθɔːtfʊl /

adjective

1. considerate in the treatment of other people

2. showing careful thought

3. pensive; reflective

Other Word Forms

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of thoughtful¹

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

Synonym Study

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.

Example Sentences

The changes include more thoughtful rules for well construction, better monitoring and risk management, and improved planning and emergency response.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

However, this transition will only be a success if executed in a thoughtful way.

Read more on MarketWatch

The exhibition pairs cautionary art history with thoughtful and poetic retorts from 20 artists, including a nonprofit art studio.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The retail giant is "committed to hiring and investing in the best talent to serve our customers, while remaining thoughtful about our H-1B hiring approach," a Walmart spokesperson said.

Read more on BBC

For the most part they are thoughtful and honest journalists intent on restoring high standards and pushing the pendulum back a little toward the plumb-line.

Read more on The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• astute 
• attentive 
• careful 
• cautious 
• considerate 
• courteous 
• deliberate 
• discreet 
• friendly 
• gracious 
• helpful 
• polite 
• prudent 
• tactful