contemplation

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/ˌkɒntəmˈpleɪʃn/
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Deep reflective thought, calm attentive looking, and the formal idea of something being considered or planned.
Practice using contemplation in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • A few minutes of quiet contemplation helped settle her thoughts.
  • His essay grew out of years of contemplation on justice.
  • The board kept the proposal in contemplation through the summer.
  • The photograph catches a child in contemplation of a candle flame.
  • She stood in quiet contemplation of the painting.

Similar words

thought
proposal
gaze
deliberation
introspection
intention
prospect
consideration
expectation
regard

Meanings

Deep or careful thought

noun
mental
neutral
Deep, sustained attention to an idea, question, or experience, often quiet enough to feel meditative or spiritual.

Examples

  • After long contemplation, she changed the design.
  • The retreat leaves several hours each day for silent contemplation.
  • His essay grew out of years of contemplation on justice.
  • A few minutes of quiet contemplation helped settle her thoughts.
  • The decision deserved more contemplation than a quick vote.
  • In prayer and contemplation, the monks sought a deeper awareness of God.

Similar words

reflection
meditation
consideration
deliberation
pondering
introspection
rumination
thought

Calm attentive looking

noun
perception
neutral
A steady, thoughtful look at something, especially when the observer studies it quietly rather than merely glancing.

Examples

  • She stood in quiet contemplation of the painting.
  • The garden invited slow contemplation from every bench.
  • He turned away from his contemplation of the sea.
  • The photograph catches a child in contemplation of a candle flame.
  • Her contemplation of the ruins lasted until dusk.
  • The sculpture rewards close contemplation from different angles.

Similar words

gaze
observation
regard
study
scrutiny
viewing
inspection
watching

Plan under consideration

noun
planning
formal
A formal way to say that an action, measure, or event is being considered, intended, or expected.

Examples

  • Several changes are in contemplation for next year.
  • No merger is currently in contemplation.
  • The law treats a crime in contemplation differently from one already attempted.
  • A move abroad was still in contemplation, not yet decided.
  • The board kept the proposal in contemplation through the summer.
  • New safety rules are in contemplation after the report.

Similar words

intention
expectation
plan
prospect
proposal
consideration

Etymology

From Middle English via Old French and Latin contemplatio, from contemplari, meaning to look fixedly, observe, or ponder. The Latin verb is connected with templum, a marked-out place for observation.

FAQ

What does contemplation mean?

Contemplation means deep or careful thought, and it can also mean calm, attentive looking.

Is contemplation the same as meditation?

They overlap, but contemplation often stresses reflective thought or spiritual attention, while meditation can name a wider set of mental practices.

Can contemplation mean looking at something?

Yes. A person can be in contemplation of a painting, a landscape, or another object viewed calmly and carefully.

What does in contemplation mean?

In contemplation is a formal phrase meaning that something is being considered, intended, or planned.

Is contemplation a verb?

No. Contemplation is a noun, and the verb is contemplate.

Where does contemplation come from?

Contemplation comes through French and Latin from a verb meaning to look fixedly, observe, or ponder.

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