American Dictionary

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Definition contemplate in American English

contemplate verb

verb
/ˈkɑntəmˌpleɪt/
1

to consider doing something in the future

Example

I'm contemplating retirement next year.

Example

He refuses even to contemplate moving his family again.

Synonyms and related words
1.1

to consider the possibility of something happening

Example

We're not even contemplating defeat.

Example

The alternative is too horrible to contemplate.

Synonyms and related words
2

to think very carefully about something for a long time

Example

I haven't got time to sit around contemplating the meaning of life.

Synonyms and related words
3

to look at something or someone for a long time

Example

He stood contemplating his image in the mirror.

Synonyms and related words
Definition contemplate in American English