contemplation

The act of thinking quietly and carefully about something.

• He sat in quiet contemplation.
• The question deserves careful contemplation.
• After hours of contemplation, she decided to leave.

How to use it: contemplation of something (She spent the evening in contemplation of her future.)

Similar words: reflection, meditation

Common phrases: quiet contemplation, deep contemplation, contemplation of something

Quiet thought about God or spiritual matters, often as a form of prayer.

• Contemplation is part of her daily prayer.
• The monastery offers a quiet place for spiritual contemplation.
• He found peace through contemplation of divine love.

How to use it: contemplation of something (The monks devote their mornings to contemplation of God.)

Similar words: meditation, devotion

Common phrases: religious contemplation, spiritual contemplation, contemplation of God

Thinking about something that is expected to happen in the future.

• Contemplation of the holiday filled him with joy.
• She trembled in contemplation of the coming trial.
• In contemplation of their reunion, he imagined her smile.

How to use it: in contemplation of something (She smiled in contemplation of their coming reunion.)

Similar words: anticipation

Common phrases: contemplation of something, in contemplation of

The state of being thought about as a possible plan or action.

• The sale is still under contemplation.
• Several changes are in contemplation.
• No further building work was under contemplation at that time.

How to use it: be under contemplation (A new school is under contemplation.)

Similar words: consideration, planning

Common phrases: under contemplation, in contemplation