beginning to contemplate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beginning to contemplate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing the initial stages of thinking deeply about a subject or idea. Example: "After much consideration, I am beginning to contemplate the possibility of changing my career path."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

That is why some are beginning to contemplate the unthinkable.

The Economist

Now Britons are beginning to contemplate the Balkanisation of the United Kingdom.

The Economist

Some European countries are beginning to contemplate (and, to a limited extent, undertake) economic reforms.

The Economist

Meanwhile, the bank's shareholders are beginning to contemplate the thought of a takeover with some seriousness.

The Economist

Bendtner, belatedly, is beginning to contemplate a future elsewhere after starting only two Premier League matches this season.

Independent

By the end of the meeting, he said, "the postal officials were beginning to contemplate acknowledging a problem".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

30 human-written examples

Before long, he began to contemplate death.

The New Yorker

"Eventually, they begin to contemplate compromises.

The New York Times

I began to contemplate my own future as a parent.

The New York Times

He has already begun to contemplate his retirement.

The New Yorker

He begins to contemplate exercising himself into shape for spring.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beginning to contemplate" when you want to express the initial phase of thinking deeply about something, especially when considering potential consequences or different aspects of a situation. It suggests a more thoughtful and deliberate process than simply 'thinking about' something.

Common error

While "beginning to contemplate" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal or stilted in casual conversations or informal writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "starting to think about" or "considering" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beginning to contemplate" functions as an infinitive phrase, often used as part of a verb phrase to express the commencement of a thoughtful consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in written English. Examples show it introducing serious reflection on future actions or situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "beginning to contemplate" correctly and effectively describes the early stages of thoughtful consideration. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically sound and widely used, particularly in News & Media. While versatile, it is most suitable for neutral to formal contexts where a deeper level of consideration is implied. Alternatives like "starting to consider" or "beginning to think about" may be more appropriate for informal situations. Remember to reserve "beginning to contemplate" for scenarios requiring a more sophisticated and deliberate tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting to consider

Emphasizes the commencement of thinking, with a focus on the act of considering something.

beginning to think about

A more straightforward alternative, directly indicating the start of the thinking process.

beginning to consider

Similar to 'starting to consider', but may imply a slightly more formal or deliberate initiation of thought.

starting to ponder

Implies a more thoughtful and reflective commencement of consideration.

beginning to entertain

Suggests a willingness to consider an idea, often one not previously considered.

beginning to reflect on

Highlights the start of a more profound and introspective consideration.

starting to muse about

Implies a gentle and perhaps unfocused beginning of thought.

beginning to wonder about

Indicates the start of a curious and potentially uncertain line of thinking.

beginning to deliberate on

Indicates starting to consider carefully, especially before making a decision.

starting to weigh up

Implies starting to balance different aspects of a situation before making a decision.

FAQs

What does "beginning to contemplate" mean?

The phrase "beginning to contemplate" suggests the early stages of thoughtful consideration or reflection on a particular topic or idea. It implies a more in-depth thinking process than simply considering something briefly.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "beginning to contemplate"?

It's appropriate to use "beginning to contemplate" when describing a situation where someone is starting to seriously think about something, often with a degree of uncertainty or exploration. It fits well in formal writing and when discussing complex issues.

What are some alternatives to "beginning to contemplate"?

You can use alternatives like "starting to consider", "beginning to think about", or "starting to ponder" depending on the context. These options offer similar meanings with slight variations in formality and emphasis.

How can I use "beginning to contemplate" effectively in a sentence?

To use "beginning to contemplate" effectively, ensure the subject is capable of thoughtful consideration and the object is a matter that warrants deeper thought. For example: "After the incident, she was beginning to contemplate her future career path."