contemplation - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
contemplation Word Meanings
- deep reflective thought
- the action of considering something carefully
- a state of prolonged thought
contemplation Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
contemplation Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˌkɒntɛmˈpleɪʃən/
US
/ˌkɑːntəmˈpleɪʃən/
contemplation Word Etymology
contemplate = con- (with) + templatum (to cut, to mark out) → Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a person standing in a quiet place, pondering deeply while surrounded by nature's beauty, as if marking out their thoughts clearly in the mind.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Contemplation refers to deep reflective thought, the act of considering something carefully, and a prolonged mental state in which ideas, choices, or experiences are examined with attention and stillness. It can be a solitary practice, often in quiet surroundings, where a person lets ideas surface and weighs different perspectives before acting. In everyday usage, contemplation might describe a deliberate pause before making a decision, or a period of meditation on a meaningful question. The term carries a sense of gravity and intention, contrasting with quick judgments by emphasizing thoroughness, patience, and inner clarity.
Usage Reminders
- - Use contemplation for deliberate, extended thinking rather than quick judgments.
- - Common collocations include contemplate a decision, contemplate the implications, and take time for contemplation.
- - It often describes a calm, solitary period of weighing options rather than daydreaming.
- - With meditation, contemplation focuses on ideas and outcomes, not clearing the mind entirely.
- - In academic writing, it signals careful reasoning and thorough evaluation.
Common Misconceptions
- It's just a momentary daydream.
- It's the same as meditation.
- Only philosophers or monks contemplate.
- Contemplation always leads to a perfect decision.
- You must stop thinking to act.
Thinking Differences
In English, contemplation often implies careful, extended thinking about a specific issue, with clear purpose; other languages may pack more nuance into one word or separate it into phrases about meditation, reflection, or rumination.
Learning Tips
- Learn 6 common verb collocations with contemplation (contemplate a plan, contemplate the implications, contemplate the consequences).
- Practice using contemplation for decisions that require time and reasoning.
- Distinguish contemplation from daydreaming by focusing on evaluation, not fantasy.
- Read philosophy or essays to see formal usage in context.
- Compare with meditation to grasp nuanced differences in purpose.
- Keep a note of contexts (academic, philosophical, literary).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'contemplation'?
A.Think deeply
B.Decide
C.Sleep
D.Eat
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'contemplation' used correctly?
A.He quickly made a decision without any contemplation.
B.I contemplate my homework every day.
C.Contemplation is a type of food.
D.She spent hours contemplating what to wear.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'contemplation'?
A.Reflection
B.Action
C.Distraction
D.Rejection
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'contemplation'?
A.Deliberation
B.Thoughtlessness
C.Consideration
D.Meditation
Step 5: Mastery
How can 'contemplation' be applied in real life?
A.Eating breakfast
B.Taking time to reflect on your actions
C.Running a marathon
D.Watching TV all day
Related Listening
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