Synonyms of contemplation

contemplation

noun

ˌkän-təm-ˈplā-shən 

1

as in meditation

long or deep thinking about spiritual matters

the decision to enter a monastery and to spend one's life in prayer and contemplation

Synonyms & Similar Words

• meditation
• deliberation
• study
• introspection
• retrospection
• reflection
• daydreaming
• reverie
• muse
• trance
• pondering
• cogitation
• rumination
• musing
• woolgathering
• brown study
• navel-gazing

2

as in anticipation

the act or state of looking forward to some occurrence

in contemplation of their children's college expenses, they started saving early

Synonyms & Similar Words

• anticipation
• expectation
• expectancy
• expectance
• prospect
• apprehension
• dread
• alarm
• misgiving
• foreboding

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of contemplation

The fireside audience takes in the punchline—a survival unscathed, a rescue, an injury, a fatality—in solemn contemplation. — Brian Laidlaw, Longreads, 1 Sep. 2026

Sister Mary Grace, 76, loves the opportunity for contemplation and the chance to express it artistically. — Kelly Wilkinson, IndyStar, 27 Aug. 2026

The process of filming and editing became one of observation, contemplation and confrontation. — Leo Barraclough, Variety, 7 Aug. 2026

The gallery, which connects the Apollo Rotunda and the Salon Carré, will serve as a space for strolling and contemplation within the museum, according to the release. — Megan Fahrney, ABC News, 22 July 2026