I contemplated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I contemplated" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to express thinking about something in a deep way before making a decision. For example, "I contemplated the pros and cons of the job offer before accepting it."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I contemplated suicide.

The New York Times

I contemplated this.

The New York Times

Then I contemplated breakfast, lunch and snacks.

The New York Times

I contemplated returning home almost at once.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And I contemplated the Fourth of July.

The New York Times - Travel

Of course I contemplated having to go.

The Guardian

I contemplated doing or saying more, but held back.

The New York Times - Sports

I contemplated this koan, or didn't, for just another year.

The New Yorker

But as a civilian, I'll admit I contemplated booing.

The New York Times

I contemplated their perfect geometries in the warm summer light.

The New Yorker

How many times have I contemplated joining the Episcopal Church?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I contemplated" when you want to convey a sense of deep thought and consideration, particularly before making a significant decision or taking action. It's stronger than "I thought about."

Common error

Avoid using "I contemplated" in casual conversation or informal writing where a simpler phrase like "I thought about" or "I considered" would be more appropriate. The phrase carries a slightly more formal and reflective tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I contemplated" functions as the main clause of a sentence, where "I" is the subject and "contemplated" is the verb. It introduces a state of reflective thought or consideration. Ludwig's examples showcase its use in various narrative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

98%

Formal & Business

1%

Science

1%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I contemplated" is a grammatically correct and versatile phrase used to express deep thought and consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness. Its frequency of use is classified as very common with its strongest presence in news and media. While generally neutral in tone, it can lean slightly towards formal. When writing, it's important to avoid overusing it in casual contexts. Alternatives like "I considered" or "I thought about" may be more suitable for informal settings. Remember, the key is to use it when you truly want to convey a sense of thoughtful deliberation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I considered

This alternative is a more direct and common synonym, indicating a simple act of thinking about something.

I pondered

This alternative suggests a deeper and more thoughtful consideration of a topic.

I mulled over

This alternative indicates a slow and deliberate process of thinking about something.

I reflected on

This alternative focuses on thinking about something in the past, often with a sense of evaluation.

I weighed up

This alternative emphasizes the act of comparing different options before making a decision.

I entertained the idea of

This alternative suggests considering something as a possibility, without necessarily making a firm decision.

I gave thought to

This alternative highlights the action of dedicating time and effort to think about something.

I envisioned

This alternative focuses on creating a mental image of something, especially a future possibility.

I speculated about

This alternative implies forming a theory or conjecture without firm evidence.

I reasoned about

This alternative emphasizes the use of logical thinking and analysis.

FAQs

What does "I contemplated" mean?

The phrase "I contemplated" means that you thought deeply about something, considering various aspects before making a decision or forming an opinion. It suggests a thoughtful and deliberate process.

What can I say instead of "I contemplated"?

You can use alternatives like "I considered", "I pondered", or "I thought about" depending on the context. Each conveys a slightly different nuance of thinking.

How formal is the phrase "I contemplated"?

"I contemplated" is more formal than phrases like "I thought about" or "I considered". It's best suited for writing or speaking where a more reflective or deliberate tone is desired.

Is it correct to use "I contemplated on"?

No, the correct usage is "I contemplated" without the preposition "on". "Contemplate" already implies deep thought and doesn't require an additional preposition.