English Dictionary

Definition of “contemplate”

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contemplate (ˈkɒntɛmˌpleɪtPronunciation for contemplate;-təm-) 

Definitions

verb (mainly tr)

  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 

Alternative Forms

ˈcontemˌplator noun

Word Origin

C16: from Latin contemplāre,  from templumtempleC16: from Latin from 1

Synonyms

View thesaurus entry
= consider, plan, think of, propose, intend, envisage, foresee, have in view or in mind
= think about, consider, ponder, mull over, reflect upon, ruminate (upon) meditate on brood over, muse over deliberate over revolve or turn over in your mind
= look at, examine, observe, check out, inspect, gaze at behold, eye up, view, study, regard, survey, stare at scrutinize, eye,

Usage examples

  • A dreadful, terrifying answer that Bunner couldn't bear to contemplate came to him.
    Wood, Bari, Doll's Eyes (1994)
  • Regards, Sunil H e is changing the way companies contemplate compensation.
    Business Today (1998)
  • I wouldn't even contemplate recommending one over the other.
    canada.com (2005)
  • You also have to contemplate the extent to which television colludes in creating the current culture of the car.
    Glasgow Herald (2002)
  • Then again, we shall be served by the daughter of the house, a young person I delight to contemplate.
    O'Brian, Patrick, The Reverse of the Medal (1986)

Commonness

All English words that begin with 'C'

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