Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com
Showing results for contemplate.
Definitions

contemplate

[kon-tuhm-pleyt, -tem-] / ˈkɒn təmˌpleɪt, -tɛm- /
VERB
think about seriously; plan
Synonyms
STRONGEST
aim consider envisage foresee intend mean mull over ponder propose think of weigh
STRONG
deliberate design excogitate expect mind observe percolate purpose ruminate speculate study
WEAK
aspire to brood over chew over cool out kick around meditate on muse over perpend reflect upon size up take in
Antonyms
STRONGEST
forget ignore neglect reject
STRONG
disregard
WEAK
discard look away scorn slight
VERB
gaze at
Synonyms
STRONGEST
consider examine notice
STRONG
audit behold eye inspect observe peer penetrate peruse pierce probe pry regard scan scrutinize see study survey view witness
WEAK
pore over stare at
Antonyms
STRONGEST
ignore neglect
STRONG
disbelieve forget look away overlook
WEAK
discard disregard scorn slight

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Losing Brown and Cummings was grim enough but the fear of losing Steyn as well was too much to contemplate.

From BBC • Mar. 10, 2026

“I recognize my suggestions are hard for many to contemplate and may be even viewed as overly harsh by some.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 3, 2026

When I contemplate it, I think about the mothers at my son’s preschool, people I work with, wealthier friends, and wonder if they would find requests for money to be cringe.

From Slate • Feb. 19, 2026

The strength she built up all season is the reason why she could even contemplate racing without her ACL.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

I couldn’t even contemplate the possibility that she might have left me behind.

From "Code Name Kingfisher" by Liz Kessler

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.