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 Certainly, most underage girls should have the support and consent of their parents when contemplating such a drastic action. Orlando Sentinel, The Orlando Sentinel, 23 May 2025 But viewers can also contemplate the complex history behind this global resort industry that seemingly unfolds endlessly from one season to the next. Eric Kohn, HollywoodReporter, 21 May 2025 But nobody within the club is contemplating that possibility. Matt Woosnam, New York Times, 17 May 2025 Tessa's contemplating a major move for her career while her estranged addict father forces his way back into her life. Megan Vick, EW.com, 17 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for contemplate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contemplate
Verb
  • California Democrats are now pondering the unthinkable.
    Editorial, Boston Herald, 22 May 2025
  • The Sharks could have a lot to think about – or nothing to ponder at all.
    Eric Stephens, New York Times, 20 May 2025
Verb
  • The move is expected to impact millions of borrowers who haven’t paid their loans for approximately nine months, and the Trump administration intends to garnish a portion of workers’ wages if their loans remain unpaid.
    Alison Durkee, Forbes.com, 23 May 2025
  • That arrangement was always intended to be temporary, but for nearly two decades, the details of untangling such massive, important institutions have bedeviled three presidential administrations – including Trump’s first.
    Andrea Riquier, USA Today, 23 May 2025
Verb
  • Dolton police did not respond to requests for information about the block but Trustee Belcher said the area was considered the rougher part of the village.
    Michael Loria, USA Today, 19 May 2025
  • It's been well over a decade since Aaliyah last scored a hit on the R&B/Hip-Hop Airplay tally, which is considered the most competitive radio ranking in those genres.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 18 May 2025
Verb
  • Ra-Ve, which had planned to use its grant to fund two concerts, will now only present one, Venkatasubramanya said.
    Sean Clancy, Arkansas Online, 25 May 2025
  • Directly south of Tierra Vista, Hanover is planning Preservation Place, a 561-lot subdivision to be built over three phases right along the turnpike.
    James Wilkins, The Orlando Sentinel, 25 May 2025
Verb
  • Volta gave demonstrations to scientific institutes across Europe with esteemed attendees, including Napoleon Bonaparte, and entertained audiences in theaters with electric devices.
    Danny Robb, JSTOR Daily, 26 May 2025
  • It's marketed firmly at the latter, a STEM tool designed to educate and entertain children from 6 upwards, who have a burgeoning interest in space.
    Chris McMullen, Space.com, 24 May 2025
Verb
  • But Braves fans hoping to see pre-surgery Strider will need to be patient, as Snitker has said many times and did again Tuesday.
    David O'Brien, New York Times, 28 May 2025
  • Steele, 29, hopes to be around the team as much as possible in the coming months, aiming to return to Wrigley Field every other homestand.
    Meghan Montemurro, Chicago Tribune, 28 May 2025
Verb
  • Body camera footage obtained by his attorney, Keith Rutman, shows officers debating whether to take him to a nearby psychiatric hospital.
    Kelly Davis, San Diego Union-Tribune, 24 May 2025
  • In fact, a simple search for side part on TikTok will generate a range of videos debating whether the look is either cheugy or the comeback style of the century.
    Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 24 May 2025
Verb
  • And climate change means that globally summers on average could get less buggy.
    Simmone Shah, Time, 20 May 2025
  • This new model means fewer jobs, shorter employment periods and diminishing opportunities for mid-level writers to develop their craft and climb the career ladder.
    JD Barker, Rolling Stone, 20 May 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Contemplate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contemplate. Accessed 1 Jun. 2025.

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