contemplative

/'kɔntempleitiv/

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Word: Contemplative

Part of Speech: Adjective (and also a noun)

Definition:

1. As an adjective: "Contemplative" describes someone who is deep in thought or serious reflection. It suggests a state of mind where a person is thinking carefully and thoroughly about something.

   • Example: "She sat by the window in a contemplative mood, pondering her life's choices."

2. As a noun: A "contemplative" can refer to a person who spends a lot of time in deep thought or reflection, often in a peaceful or meditative way.

   • Example: "He is a contemplative, often found meditating in the garden."

Usage Instructions:

• Use "contemplative" to describe actions, moods, or people that involve deep thought or reflective behavior.
• It is often used in contexts related to philosophy, spirituality, or creativity.

Advanced Usage:

• In literature, a contemplative character might be someone who reflects on their life experiences, leading to insights or personal growth.
• "Contemplative" can also be used in a religious or spiritual context, where individuals practice meditation or prayer.

Word Variants:

• Contemplation (noun): The act of thinking deeply about something.
  • Example: "After much contemplation, she decided to change her career."
• Contemplate (verb): To think about something deeply or carefully.
  • Example: "He contemplated the meaning of life."

Different Meanings:

• While "contemplative" primarily suggests deep thought, it can also imply a peaceful or serene state of mind associated with meditation or introspection.

Synonyms:

• Thoughtful
• Reflective
• Meditative
• Pensive
• Introspective

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Lost in thought": This idiom is similar to being contemplative, where someone is deeply engaged in their thoughts.

  • Example: "She seemed lost in thought during the meeting."

• "Mull over": This phrasal verb means to think about something carefully over a period of time.

  • Example: "I need to mull over your proposal before making a decision."

Summary:

"Contemplative" is a versatile word that describes a state of deep thought or reflection. It can apply to both actions and people, often suggesting a peaceful and serious approach to thinking.

Academic

Adjective

1. deeply or seriously thoughtful;
   • Byron lives on not only in his poetry, but also in his creation of the 'Byronic hero' - the persona of a brooding melancholy young man

Noun

1. a person devoted to the contemplative life

Synonyms

• brooding
• broody
• meditative
• musing
• pensive
• pondering
• reflective
• ruminative