contemplate
verb (used with object)
to look at or view with continued attention; observe or study thoughtfully.
was contemplating
-
past progressiveof contemplate.past progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or continuous state that was happening at a specific time in the past.
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.
The source said Lopez had recently requested the appointment of an eventual successor, suggesting he was contemplating a transition before his mandatory retirement at the age of 75, in 2027.
From Barron's ● Jul. 7, 2026
Instead, she added, Saks terminated Kwatra because he was contemplating another job and had just turned down a retention bonus.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 12, 2025
When Kamala Harris was contemplating a run for California governor, one of her supposed considerations was the security detail that attends the state’s chief executive.
From Los Angeles Times ● Sep. 10, 2025
"There was a few times when I was contemplating why am I doing this," he added.
From BBC ● Jul. 7, 2025
He looked as though he was ready to eat, as if he was contemplating food.
From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson
