as we contemplated

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as we contemplated" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a moment of reflection or deep thought about a particular subject or situation. Example: "As we contemplated the future of our project, we realized that we needed to make some significant changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

It got silent as we contemplated the date.

The New York Times

So I will tell you what I told my husband last year as we contemplated our first Christmas in Africa.

The New York Times

That's the question we asked ourselves as we contemplated a one-week getaway to Cozumel in mid-March.

The New York Times - Travel

"As we contemplated the use of force over the past 14 months, we constructed four different models," one senior official said.

The Washington Post

"That's an entire pig there, simmered, then caramelized in its own fat," Mr. Santibañez said as we contemplated El Charro's mound of pork.

The New York Times - Travel

As we contemplated the otherworldly-looking monoliths on the drive back to Bluff, that notion didn't seem so fanciful at all.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

As Wes contemplates the grave marker of Susan, the narrative in the present gradually melts away and the fantasy of the past takes over but Wes, the creator of the fantasy, is present in both time frames and blurs them together.

Vice

We might have a use for that as we contemplate this baseball season.

The New York Times - Sports

As we contemplate the government's next target, I keep my fear in check.

The New York Times

As we contemplate the Balkanisation of the UK and EU, we should remember Yugoslavia.

The Guardian

We'll instead turn to Cuban cocktails, with Havana Club, as we contemplate Castro.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as we contemplated" to introduce a reflection or thought process that leads to a decision, realization, or conclusion. This phrase works well when setting the scene or providing context for a narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "as we contemplated" if the reflection was brief or superficial. This phrase implies thoughtful consideration, so it's better suited for situations involving deep thought and reflection over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "as we contemplated" functions as an introductory phrase, setting the stage for a description of a reflective thought process. It often introduces a clause that explains the result or outcome of that contemplation. Ludwig AI analysis confirms its use in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Academia

15%

Travel

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as we contemplated" is a commonly used phrase that introduces a reflective thought process, often leading to a decision or understanding. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and well-suited for a neutral register, appearing frequently in news and media, academic, and travel contexts. When using this phrase, ensure the context involves genuine and thoughtful consideration, and be mindful of potentially more straightforward alternatives like "while we considered" or "as we pondered" for less formal situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

while we considered

Replaces 'contemplated' with 'considered', indicating a slightly less formal reflection.

as we pondered

Substitutes 'contemplated' with 'pondered', suggesting a deeper and more thoughtful consideration.

when we reflected on

Uses 'reflected on' instead of 'contemplated', emphasizing a backward-looking consideration.

as we thought about

Replaces 'contemplated' with the more straightforward 'thought about', reducing formality.

in our consideration of

Presents a more formal and structured approach to reflection, using 'consideration of'.

upon reviewing

Suggests a formal assessment or analysis is occurring. It's useful when a decision should be made after close inspection.

after deliberation

Highlights that careful consideration was done and a final decision was made, suitable for concluding remarks.

while mulling over

Mulling over implies a more relaxed, thoughtful consideration, suitable for situations where there is less pressure.

as we meditated on

Substitutes 'contemplated' with 'meditated on', suggesting a reflective approach, often more spiritual.

on deeper inspection

This is used when the analysis done is not superficial. Use when emphasizing thorough investigation.

FAQs

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

Use "as we contemplated" to introduce a period of thoughtful consideration before a decision or realization. For example, "As we contemplated the risks, we decided to proceed cautiously."

What are some alternatives to "as we contemplated"?

You can use alternatives like "while we considered", "as we pondered", or "when we reflected on" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "as we contemplated" in formal writing?

Yes, "as we contemplated" is suitable for formal writing, as it indicates careful and thoughtful consideration. However, ensure the tone of your writing is consistent with this level of formality.

What's the difference between "as we contemplated" and "as we considered"?

"As we contemplated" implies a deeper and more thoughtful reflection than "as we considered". "Contemplated" suggests a prolonged and thorough consideration, while "considered" is more general.