contemplate as

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "contemplate as" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase is used to suggest an idea as being applicable to a concept or situation. For example: "We should contemplate the future as an opportunity to make positive changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Yeah, and that's mighty ugly to contemplate as well.

The New York Times

The hardships they endure are frightful to contemplate, as are the things they eat, some of which are still wriggling.

The New York Times - Arts

"Think and contemplate as much as you can before making a decision, because that will determine the direction of the country and also your grandchildren's future".

The New York Times

It is hardly a problem that most of us have to contemplate – as much as we might like to dream that it were the case.

BBC

It is as fascinating to contemplate as it is unlikely.

The New York Times

Similarities are as absorbing to contemplate as differences.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

29 human-written examples

"There seems to be no floor, we are contemplating as low as $35 a tonne," Mr Hockey told the AFR.

BBC

The grade separations had been contemplated as early as 1942.

Wikipedia

Its act of contemplation makes what it contemplates— as though the very act of contemplation were automatically productive (III. 8. 4).

SEP

Possession of oral language makes it possible to transmit information over time and space, to form social bonds, and to contemplate future as well as past events.

Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences

"No layoffs are contemplated as a result of the transaction," the paper said.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "contemplate as" when you want to present a thoughtful consideration of something in relation to another idea or concept. For instance, "Contemplate technology as a tool for social change."

Common error

Avoid using "contemplate as" in simple situations where direct synonyms like "think of" or "consider" are more appropriate. Using "contemplate as" in overly simple contexts can sound pretentious or unnecessarily complex.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "contemplate as" functions as a verb phrase used to introduce a specific viewpoint or interpretation of something. It implies a deliberate and thoughtful consideration of a subject in relation to another idea or concept. Ludwig confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Science

24%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "contemplate as" is a grammatically sound expression used to introduce a reflective perspective or deliberate consideration of a subject in relation to another concept. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and suitable for written English. It is observed with moderate frequency in news, scientific, and formal contexts. While "contemplate as" effectively conveys thoughtfulness, be mindful of its register and consider direct synonyms like "rethink as" or "reconsider as" in simpler scenarios. Top sources using the phrase include The New York Times and The Guardian, lending credibility to its usage. The phrase serves to encourage deeper thought and understanding, making it a valuable tool in writing when used judiciously.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rethink as

Suggests a more active and deliberate process of changing one's view.

reconsider as

Implies a previous consideration and a new look at the same subject.

reflect as

Emphasizes deep thought and consideration.

imagine as

Focuses on forming a mental image or concept.

deem as

Suggests a formal judgment or assessment.

ponder as

Implies a thoughtful and prolonged consideration.

think as

A more general term for having an opinion or belief.

examine as

Involves a detailed inspection or analysis.

entertain as

Implies considering something as a possibility, often without commitment.

explore as

Suggests an investigation to understand something new.

FAQs

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

Use "contemplate as" to suggest a thoughtful consideration of something in relation to another concept. For example, "We can contemplate this decision as a turning point".

What are some alternatives to "contemplate as"?

You can use alternatives like "rethink as", "reconsider as", or "imagine as" depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "consider as" and "contemplate as"?

"Consider as" generally implies a more straightforward evaluation, while "contemplate as" suggests a deeper, more thoughtful reflection. "Consider as" is more common and less formal.

When is it appropriate to use "contemplate as" in writing?

Use "contemplate as" in formal writing when you want to convey a sense of deep thought or careful consideration about a particular subject in relation to something else. It is common in academic, philosophical, or reflective contexts.