deep in contemplation

USAGE SUMMARY

"deep in contemplation" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it whenever you want to describe someone who is thinking deeply about something. For example: "He was standing in the corner of the room, deep in contemplation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

La Belle Ferronière seems almost angrily deep in contemplation, watching something behind you, out of your sight.

The Guardian - Arts

Leo Tolstoy's 186th birthday is is being marked with a Google doodle showing the great author in cartoon form, deep in contemplation as he writes one of his masterpieces by candlelight.

The Guardian - Books

In the ensuing silence, we notice only the disturbing images that precede the poem's famously surprising ending: the faces of the crowd, suddenly serious, the streets emptying, the citizens shambling home "deep in contemplation".

The New Yorker

As you picture the scene, you might think that the researcher in question, Manuela Dal Borgo, deep in contemplation of these ancient musings, is in a place as remote from the recession-shaken realities of the 21st century as it is possible to find.

Independent

But by August, no replacement bill was in sight ― and Republicans were deep in contemplation about what they would do if they retook control of the Senate after the midterm election.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

54 human-written examples

While the real-life grown-ups on TV were again rebooting Vietnam, the kids at "Wall-E" were in deep contemplation of a world in peril — and of the future that is theirs to make what they will of it.

The New York Times

In this picture, Francis is very much alone, in deep contemplation of God, gazing gently heavenward, his arms at his sides, palms slightly raised.

Huffington Post

When I tried out the spa myself early the next morning, a few bathers were already soaking in deep contemplation.

The New York Times - Magazine

Among the roughly 1,200 listeners present, some sat or sprawled on the hardwood floor, eyes closed in deep contemplation.

The New York Times - Arts

The crowd was hushed – soon many of them would leave the stadium – and in deep contemplation Tendulkar headed off to the distant pavilion.

The Guardian - Sport

As I wandered slowly through this epic exhibition, which was divided into nine thematic and geographical sections – The Plains, From the Missouri West, The Pacific – a calmness descended over the gallery; the silence of people in deep contemplation.

The Guardian - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "deep in contemplation" to vividly portray a state of profound and focused thought, ensuring the context aligns with a serious or thoughtful subject.

Common error

Avoid using "deep in contemplation" for casual or fleeting moments of thought. This phrase suggests a significant level of immersion and concentration, not a passing idea.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep in contemplation" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a state is experienced. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is perfectly correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deep in contemplation" is a grammatically correct and readily usable phrase to describe someone thinking seriously. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's perfectly appropriate for describing a state of profound thought. While its frequency is uncommon, it effectively conveys a sense of focused, deliberate thinking. The phrase finds its primary use in news, media, and wiki contexts. For alternative expressions, consider options like "lost in thought" or "absorbed in reflection" to add variety to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

rapt in contemplation

Emphasizes the captivating and absorbing nature of the contemplation.

lost in thought

Emphasizes the absorption of the person in their own thoughts, possibly unaware of their surroundings.

in serious deliberation

Highlights the gravity and importance of the thinking process.

absorbed in reflection

Highlights the reflective nature of the thinking process, often involving analysis of past events.

engrossed in consideration

Suggests a focused and deliberate engagement with a particular topic or issue.

immersed in introspection

Implies a deeper, more internal exploration of one's own thoughts and feelings.

pondering deeply

Focuses on the act of weighing and considering something carefully.

meditating profoundly

Implies a structured and spiritual approach to deep thinking.

in profound reverie

Suggests a state of dreamy and imaginative thought.

brooding intensely

Conveys a more troubled or preoccupied form of deep thought.

FAQs

How can I use "deep in contemplation" in a sentence?

You can use "deep in contemplation" to describe someone who is thinking seriously and thoughtfully. For example, "The philosopher sat by the river, "deep in contemplation" about the meaning of life."

What is a good alternative to "deep in contemplation"?

Alternatives to "deep in contemplation" include "lost in thought", "absorbed in reflection", or "engrossed in consideration", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "deep in contemplation" in informal writing?

While grammatically correct, "deep in contemplation" leans toward formal or neutral registers. In more casual writing, phrases like "lost in thought" might be more suitable.

What's the difference between "deep in contemplation" and "in deep thought"?

"Deep in contemplation" suggests a more focused and deliberate process of thinking, often with a specific subject in mind. "In deep thought" ("deep in thought") is a more general term for being seriously engaged in thinking.