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 Hoover bounces back with a clean game, while Coach Prime contemplates making a quarterback change. Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 3 Oct. 2025 In 2024, almost one in four Americans experienced mental illness, almost 18% had substance abuse problems and over 5% had contemplated suicide, according to the news release. Ray Stern, AZCentral.com, 2 Oct. 2025 In her record-breaking guest spot on New Heights that same month, the superstar and her future brother-in-law discussed one of her special interests, numerology — which seems to have made an impact on Jason, who contemplated Travis’ new age on their show Wednesday. Anna Lazarus Caplan, PEOPLE, 1 Oct. 2025 Labor market stability is an important consideration for the Fed as officials contemplate the next move for interest rates. Jeff Cox, CNBC, 30 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for contemplate
Recent Examples of Synonyms for contemplate
Verb
  • Entering his first full offseason, Seidler may want to ponder a comment made a few years ago by Peter Seidler, his late brother.
    Tom Krasovic, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Oct. 2025
  • In the book, Keaton reflected on modern standards of beauty, pondering the societal obsession with how things look.
    Emily Zemler, Rolling Stone, 11 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The flip side to Marner’s exit is that the Leafs have cap flexibility and intend to take a swing with it.
    Pierre LeBrun, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • The addition, intended for anyone age 10 and older, is a fish tank filter that can be attached to a tropical aquarium.
    Julia Gomez, USA Today, 15 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Bendicksen, the center’s director of wildlife rehabilitation, decided to attempt something few would consider, a wing transplant.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 11 Oct. 2025
  • Even though there is risk that would come with the move, the Saints should consider it if the option presents itself.
    Evan Massey, MSNBC Newsweek, 11 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The researchers plan to address the light sensitivity issue by modifying how the vitamin interacts with the electrolyte and by improving the engineering of the flow cell itself.
    Aamir Khollam, Interesting Engineering, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Thomas Tuchel plans to speak to the Real Madrid midfielder.
    Phil Hay, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • The club thought Beane was righteous and entertaining enough to feature his rant — that the Bills even had to bleep — at the very beginning of their behind-the-scenes draft special.
    Tim Graham, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • This attracted many music students, one of them Costa Rican Mario Castellón, who formed a group with two Colombians, a Peruvian and a Chilean to entertain at a wedding.
    Karla Gachet, NPR, 15 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Beane, however, had better hope his incoming defensive reinforcements make a significant push to keep 2025 on the Super Bowl track.
    Tim Graham, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • Although some movies for grown-ups are having a tougher time, analysts hope studios continue to make them.
    Brent Lang, Variety, 15 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Geologists debate boundaries of the ring of fire While geologists widely agree upon most regions within the Pacific Ring of Fire, several areas remain subject to debate.
    Shane Croucher, MSNBC Newsweek, 10 Oct. 2025
  • With the nation's 250th anniversary approaching, many teachers, parents and politicians are debating the best ways for students to learn about American history.
    Cory Turner, NPR, 10 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Make your vehicle visible to others both ahead of you and behind you by using your low-beam headlights since this means your taillights will also be on.
    KANSAS CITY STAR WEATHER BOT, Kansas City Star, 11 Oct. 2025
  • Controlling a fire means ensuring that the fire can't spread or cross the containment line.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 11 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Contemplate.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/contemplate. Accessed 16 Oct. 2025.

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