verb

contemplate

KAHN-tuhm-playt/ˈkɑːntəmpleɪt/

To think carefully about something.

She pauses to contemplate the consequences before making her decision.

A South Asian woman quietly considers two house models on a desk, chin resting on hand.

Etymology

conLatinperhaps adds emphasis

+templLatinspace for taking auguries

+ateLatinparticipial ending

Templum was an augur’s observation space, with com- perhaps adding emphasis. The verb developed from marking out such a space to attentive observation, then mental consideration or keeping a possible action in view.

In context

Curt Jaimungal185:46

Experience your suffering contemplate it, ponder about it we are in this situation not forever, soon enough we will not be so take something out of it

Escaping the Illusion: Bernardo Kastrup Exposes Reality

More examples

We contemplated moving closer to our parents.
He sits quietly, contemplating what the news means for his family.
The poem invites readers to contemplate the passage of time.

Forms

contemplate · contemplates · contemplated · contemplating

contemplation noun — The act of thinking carefully about something.

contemplative adjective — Inclined to spend time in thoughtful reflection.

Similar words

ponder: Emphasizes sustained thought, often about a difficult question.
consider: Often means weighing an option before making a decision.
reflect: Often involves looking back on experiences to understand their meaning.