CONTEMPLATIVE Synonyms: 49 Similar and Opposite Words

contemplative

adjective

kən-ˈtem-plə-tiv

Definition of contemplative

as in thoughtful

given to or marked by long, quiet thinking a contemplative person who likes to go on solitary walks the contemplative life of the monks at the abbey

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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 contemplative Her honeyed vocals are a powerful pairing for this track’s lilting, contemplative production. — Lyndsey Havens, Billboard, 25 Sep. 2026 And in Walworth County, travelers will find more of that contemplative, fall experience, according to Emma Lowecki, director of guest experience at The Belfry House. — Stacey Leasca, Travel + Leisure, 14 Sep. 2026 Fernández’s adaptation is anxious to turn tragedy into a sermon, offering theatergoers moral solace where Sophocles leaves his audience in a contemplative state of stunned silence. — Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 11 Sep. 2026 We are asked constantly to dilate and contract—to adjust from contemplative darkness to the California sun, from specific detail to overarching conceit, from stillness to activity. — Katy Barkan, Artforum, 1 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for contemplative

Recent Examples of Synonyms for contemplative

Adjective

Media companies — like ours — will be there to keep you company, of course, in our case with superb analysis and a thoughtful afternoon livestream.

— Ben Smith, semafor.com, 3 Nov. 2026
The Woobles Beginner Crochet Amigurumi Kits are fun for experienced stitchers and beginners alike, and make for thoughtful holiday gifts, too.

— Jessie Quinn, StyleCaster, 2 Nov. 2026

Definition of thoughtful

Adjective

Madeleine is beautiful and melancholy, spending hours driving around San Francisco and contemplating a painting that seems to haunt her.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 28 Oct. 2026
Gentling the Horse’s absurdist humor and breakneck tempos signify a sharp break from 2023’s melancholy The Art of Forgetting.

— Zach Schonfeld, Pitchfork, 26 Oct. 2026

Definition of melancholy

Adjective

While reminiscing during the July reunion, a reflective Epstein described feeling liberated after the Cubs returned from Cleveland with the World Series trophy in hand.

— Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 2 Nov. 2026
The experiment described, which intentionally seeks to elicit a particular response, is not representative of how most voters use ChatGPT or reflective of their experience.

— Katie McQue, NPR, 2 Nov. 2026

Definition of reflective

Adjective

This reality is claustrophobic at times, but at others freeing, almost meditative.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 2 Nov. 2026
The combination of gentle muscle activation, diaphragmatic breathing, and torso movements may help encourage lymphatic flow, while the meditative pace offers an opportunity to unwind.

— Marie Bladt, Vogue, 1 Nov. 2026

Definition of meditative

Adjective

The weather rewrites your shooting schedule every morning, and there’s an almost philosophical lesson in learning to accept that without giving up.

— Rafa Sales Ross, Variety, 27 Oct. 2026
The economist was infamous in London’s philosophical circles for arguing fervently—and, many thought, heartlessly—against poor relief.

— Literary Hub, Literary Hub, 26 Oct. 2026