as I contemplated

USAGE SUMMARY

"as I contemplated" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate something that you were considering or reflecting on, often in a reflective or contemplative context. For example, "As I contemplated the view from the top of the mountain, I was struck by its beauty."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

50 human-written examples

Somehow, as I contemplated becoming the only woman in a group of men, that openness reassured me.

The New York Times

The meal ground to a halt as I contemplated this wine, certainly the most profound of the younger wines.

The New York Times - Food

I ran these possibilities over in my head, as I contemplated the fate of my latest farmers' market haul.

The New York Times

I'm sure that I had a big goober smile on my face as I contemplated such an outcome.

The New Yorker

All this came to mind as I contemplated the increasingly loud campaign demanding that the Fed stop its bond purchases and indeed start raising interest rates.

The New York Times

"As I contemplated it, it was such a simple image, yet like all his work it is about the bigger subject of art and creativity," Mr. Govan said.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

9 human-written examples

I shudder as I contemplate the expectations of these children as they have their own.

The New York Times

As I contemplate the thaw, a celebratory ritual seems in order.

The New York Times

As I contemplate my own mother's tired eyes, I wonder: What happens to those who lose a child?

The New York Times

Try saying: "Thank you for your patience as I contemplate all the other jobs I'd prefer working".

The New Yorker

As I contemplate the statistics — especially the 54 percent unemployment rate among young Greeks — I think of all the stories behind this appalling data.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as I contemplated" to introduce a period of reflection or deep thought before making a decision or sharing a realization. It adds a sense of thoughtfulness and introspection to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "as I contemplated" in simple, fast-paced narratives. It can slow down the story and sound overly formal in contexts that require immediate action or straightforward recounting of events.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as I contemplated" functions as an introductory clause, setting the stage for a reflection or consideration. It connects a past thought process to a subsequent action or realization. As Ludwig AI shows, it is typically followed by what the speaker thought about.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

9%

Less common in

Reference

0%

Social Media

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as I contemplated" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to introduce a moment of reflection. It is considered correct and common, as confirmed by Ludwig AI, often appearing in news and media, science and formal business contexts. While versatile, it is best used to add depth to narratives rather than in simple recounting of events. Remember to use it to signal thoughtful consideration, and not overuse it so that it seems unnatural. Consider alternatives like "while I pondered" or "when I reflected on" for slight variations in tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as I considered

Uses "considered" instead of "contemplated", offering a more direct synonym for reflection.

while I pondered

Replaces "contemplated" with "pondered", suggesting a more thoughtful consideration.

when I reflected on

Emphasizes the act of reflecting, focusing on past thoughts and experiences.

on reflecting upon

A more formal way of saying "when I reflected on".

upon considering

Formal alternative, placing emphasis on the act of considering something.

in thinking about

A more straightforward way of expressing the act of considering.

while mulling over

Replaces "contemplated" with "mulling over", suggesting a more casual and prolonged thought process.

in my musings about

Uses "musings" to convey a state of thoughtful reflection, often implying a degree of wistfulness.

as I meditated on

Suggests a more spiritual or intensely thoughtful reflection.

giving thought to

Emphasizes the act of giving something consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "as I contemplated" in a sentence?

You can use "as I contemplated" to introduce a thought or consideration. For example, "As I contemplated the offer, I realized it wasn't the right fit for my career goals."

What are some alternatives to "as I contemplated"?

Alternatives include phrases like "as I considered", "when I reflected on", or "while I pondered", each offering a slightly different nuance to the act of thinking.

Is "as I contemplated" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "as I contemplated" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a sense of thoughtful reflection and can be effectively used in essays, reports, and professional communications. However, you could consider using "upon considering" for an even more elevated tone.

What's the difference between "as I contemplated" and "as I thought about"?

"As I contemplated" suggests a deeper, more prolonged reflection compared to "as I thought about", which is a more general expression of thinking. "Contemplated" implies a more serious and deliberate consideration of the subject.