Contemplate sth Meaning & Examples: How to Use This Phrasal Verb

What Does “Contemplate sth” Mean?

“Contemplate sth” means to think carefully and deeply about something before making a decision or forming an opinion.

Introduction

The phrase “Contemplate sth” is commonly used in English to describe a thoughtful process where someone carefully considers or reflects on a particular subject or action. Understanding the contemplate sth meaning helps learners express moments when they pause to evaluate or weigh options in their mind. This phrasal verb is useful in both formal and informal contexts when you want to show that you are giving serious thought to something. Whether planning your future, considering a problem, or reflecting on an idea, contemplate sth is a clear way to communicate deep thinking.

Quick Info Box

• Phrasal verb: Contemplate something
• Type: Transitive
• Level: B2
• Short meaning: To think deeply about something

Structure (Grammar Rules)

“Contemplate” is a transitive verb, so it always requires an object (something to think about).

• Subject + contemplate + object
• Example: She contemplated the idea carefully.

This phrasal verb is inseparable, meaning you cannot separate “contemplate” and “something” with other words.

How to Use Contemplate sth?

Use “contemplate sth” when you want to describe a serious or deep thought process. It often implies spending time considering options, consequences, or future actions.

• Think about decisions, plans, or problems.
• Use it in formal or reflective situations.
• Can be followed by nouns or gerunds (contemplating moving, contemplating quitting).

Examples

Here are some natural examples of contemplate sth in a sentence:

• He contemplated the offer before making a final decision.
• She contemplated moving to a new city for a fresh start.
• They contemplated the consequences of their actions carefully.
• Before accepting the job, I contemplated the pros and cons.
• We contemplated the idea of traveling abroad next year.

Common Mistakes

Sometimes learners confuse “contemplate sth” with similar verbs or incorrect structures. Here are some examples:

• Incorrect: I am contemplating about the problem.
  Correct: I am contemplating the problem.
• Incorrect: She contemplated on leaving her job.
  Correct: She contemplated leaving her job.

Remember, “contemplate” does not need prepositions like “about” or “on.”

Differences / Synonyms

Several verbs are similar but have subtle differences:

• Consider: To think about something, often casually or briefly.
• Reflect on: To think deeply, often about past events.
• Ponder: To think carefully, similar to contemplate but a bit more formal.

“Contemplate sth” usually implies a longer, more serious thought process than “consider.”

Common Collocations

Here are common objects used with “contemplate”:

• Contemplate a decision: Think carefully before deciding.
• Contemplate a future: Think about what lies ahead.
• Contemplate a move: Consider relocating.
• Contemplate a problem: Think deeply about an issue.
• Contemplate an idea: Reflect on a concept or plan.

Real-life Dialogue

Here is a short conversation using contemplate sth naturally:

Tom: Have you thought about quitting your job?

Anna: Yes, I’ve been contemplating that for weeks. It’s a big decision.

Tom: What are you thinking?

Anna: I’m contemplating starting my own business instead.

Practice

Try to complete the sentence with the correct form:

• She is __________ (contemplate) moving to another country next year.
• We should __________ (contemplate) all options before choosing.
• He contemplated __________ (accept) the job offer for a long time.

FAQ

• Q: Can “contemplate” be used without an object?
  A: No, “contemplate” always needs an object to complete its meaning.
• Q: Is “contemplate” formal or informal?
  A: It is more formal and often used in reflective or serious contexts.
• Q: Can I say “contemplate about something”?
  A: No, do not use “about” after contemplate.
• Q: What is the difference between “contemplate” and “consider”?
  A: “Contemplate” suggests deeper, longer thought than “consider.”
• Q: Can “contemplate” be followed by a gerund?
  A: Yes, for example, “contemplate moving.”