contemplate

[ kon-tuhm-pleyt, -tem- ]

verb (used with object)

, con·tem·plat·ed, con·tem·plat·ing.

1. to look at or view with continued attention; observe or study thoughtfully:

   to contemplate the stars.

   Synonyms: survey, regard, behold

2. to consider thoroughly; think fully or deeply about:

   to contemplate a difficult problem.

   Synonyms: ponder, study

3. to have as a purpose; intend:

   The District Attorney's office does not contemplate any charges.

   Synonyms: plan, design

4. to have in view as a future event:

   to contemplate buying a new car.

verb (used without object)

, con·tem·plat·ed, con·tem·plat·ing.

1. to think studiously; consider deliberately; meditate.

contemplate

/ -təm-; ˈkɒntɛmˌpleɪt /

verb

1. to think about intently and at length; consider calmly
2. intr to think intently and at length, esp for spiritual reasons; meditate
3. to look at thoughtfully; observe pensively
4. to have in mind as a possibility

   to contemplate changing jobs

Derived Forms

• ˈcontemˌplator, noun

Other Words From

• con·tem·pla·tor noun
• pre·con·tem·plate verb precontemplated precontemplating
• re·con·tem·plate verb recontemplated recontemplating
• un·con·tem·plat·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of contemplate¹

First recorded in 1585–95; from Latin contemplātus, past participle of contemplāre, contemplārī “to survey, observe,” equivalent to con- “with, together” + templ(um) “space marked off for augural observation” + -ātus past participle suffix; con-, temple ¹, -ate ¹

Word History and Origins

Origin of contemplate¹

C16: from Latin contemplāre, from templum temple ¹

Example Sentences

It provided a time to contemplate all the unanswered questions we understood we would soon face as a new day dawned.

From Los Angeles Times

Orbital contemplates the world from a different viewpoint as it follows a team of astronauts in the International Space Station.

From BBC

Prosecutor Mark Heywood KC said: "Do you understand that contemplating sending, or sending this document like you told police, could endanger British citizens?"

From BBC

Mostly, what made him who he is, is his ability to contemplate nature.

From Salon

With election cycles increasingly confusing politics with entertainment, comedians who spoke with The Times say they increasingly contemplate how their societal roles have changed.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• aim
• consider
• envisage
• foresee
• intend
• mean
• mull over
• ponder
• propose
• think of
• weigh