Definition of contemplatenext

Synonym Chooser

How does the verb contemplate differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of contemplate are consider, study, and weigh. While all these words mean "to think about in order to arrive at a judgment or decision," contemplate stresses focusing one's thoughts on something but does not imply coming to a conclusion or decision.

contemplate the consequences of refusing

When would consider be a good substitute for contemplate?

The words consider and contemplate are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, consider may suggest giving thought to in order to reach a suitable conclusion, opinion, or decision.

refused even to consider my proposal

When might study be a better fit than contemplate?

While in some cases nearly identical to contemplate, study implies sustained purposeful concentration and attention to details and minutiae.

study the plan closely

When is it sensible to use weigh instead of contemplate?

The words weigh and contemplate can be used in similar contexts, but weigh implies attempting to reach the truth or arrive at a decision by balancing conflicting claims or evidence.

weigh the pros and cons of the case

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of contemplate An inflation rate now at its highest level in three years, combined with a high Federal funds rate that's unlikely to change anytime soon, not to mention the possibility of interest rate hikes later this year, has left many savers contemplating their next move. Matt Richardson, CBS News, 24 June 2026 Something to contemplate, at least. Michael Santoli, CNBC, 23 June 2026 On this late May evening, the 15 men gathered there were contemplating tackling something few had previously had the courage or skill to take on. Andrew J. Campa, Los Angeles Times, 19 June 2026 Following the completion of her fifth season, Powell initially contemplated returning for a sixth year as a DCC — but ultimately decided to hang up her boots and retire. Lynsey Eidell, PEOPLE, 18 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for contemplate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contemplate
Verb
  • Plunkett, with the Norman Rockwell Museum, pondered whether Americans viewing the painting today would find a familiar feeling.
    Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • Season 2 continues this thread, and Hely pondered the sense of exhaustion about living in this corporate world.
    Kambole Campbell, Variety, 25 June 2026
Verb
  • Key to watch for will be how a new government intends to tackle Britain's debt burden and revive sluggish growth without driving borrowing costs even higher.
    Gail Krishnan, CNBC, 23 June 2026
  • While these drugs can be life-changing for many people, they are not always intended to be permanent.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Aid groups consider the first 48 to 72 hours after a disaster to be the most critical window for finding survivors, though access to food and water can extend that period.
    Michael Sinkewicz, FOXNews.com, 28 June 2026
  • Should Portugal have rested Ronaldo against Colombia, considering Portugal entered Saturday’s match already assured of advancing to the knockout stage?
    Anthony Chiang June 27, Miami Herald, 28 June 2026
Verb
  • Future projects being planned in the central city for delivery over the next five years will include other office-to-apartment conversions and new housing built from the ground up.
    Roger Vincent, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026
  • Lawmakers plan to direct the Department of Finance to present the Legislature with options for how to do that.
    CBS News, CBS News, 30 June 2026
Verb
  • The material contained on this site is intended to inform, entertain and educate the reader and in no way represents an inducement to gamble legally or illegally or any sort of professional advice.
    Mary Walrath-Holdridge, USA Today, 23 June 2026
  • These series are designed to entertain and intrigue viewers, while letting advertisers spur purchases and sales,.
    Brian Steinberg, Variety, 23 June 2026
Verb
  • Kean will face Democrat Rebecca Bennett, a former Navy helicopter pilot, in November for New Jersey's 7th Congressional District, a toss-up district Democrats hope to flip.
    Lalee Ibssa, ABC News, 30 June 2026
  • Meanwhile, the Warriors hope to get a commitment from James on Tuesday but had not received that commitment as of early afternoon, per ESPN.
    Anthony Chiang, Miami Herald, 30 June 2026
Verb
  • Sure, it can certainly be debated if Marathon being revived after all this time as an extraction shooter was the right call.
    Paul Tassi, Forbes.com, 27 June 2026
  • As Florida lawmakers continue to debate healthcare affordability and patient protections, this is an issue that deserves urgent attention.
    Karen Arace, The Orlando Sentinel, 27 June 2026
Verb
  • For some women who survived breast cancer that now means systemic hormones such as progesterone, estrogen and testosterone, unheard of for most women a decade ago.
    Laura Trujillo, USA Today, 30 June 2026
  • There is no sudden death or golden goal at the World Cup, which means the full extra-time period will be played no matter how many goals are scored.
    Andrew Greif, NBC news, 30 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Contemplate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contemplate. Accessed 2 Jul. 2026.

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