extremely pensive

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extremely pensive" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone who is deeply thoughtful or reflective, often in a serious or melancholic way. Example: "As she gazed out the window, lost in her thoughts, she appeared extremely pensive, contemplating the choices she had made."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

His improvisations have such substance that even his very early student works evoke haunting suggestions of Isadora Duncan's darkest side, and an extremely pensive Doris Humphrey.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

In French, I am super pensive.

The Guardian

There was also Ellison's brother, Herbert — an extremely silent, pensive man — who lives in California, where he works for the City of Los Angeles.

The New Yorker

He also said that such a procedure was extremely ex pensive for the courts, because the legally established pay for such assignments is $15 an hour for a court appearance, $10 an hour for work outside the court, with a ceiling of $500 for felony and $300 for a misde meanor.

The New York Times

What it can mean to the boat‐buying public some day is extremely durable, inex pensive lightweight craft that can be textured in many ways, grained to resemble wood (or anything else) and remain unsinkable.

The New York Times

Then Victoria turned pensive.

The New Yorker

Dave looked pensive.

The New Yorker

Bird looks more pensive.

The Guardian

Understandably, most were pensive.

The Guardian - Sport

Jonah seemed pensive, concerned.

The New Yorker

Bechdel was pensive.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "extremely pensive" to describe a state of deep and serious contemplation, often when the subject is facing a significant decision or reflecting on a profound experience. This phrase is particularly effective in narrative writing to convey a character's inner turmoil or thoughtfulness.

Common error

Avoid using "extremely pensive" in everyday conversation or informal writing. The phrase carries a formal and somewhat literary tone, making it sound out of place in casual contexts. Opt for simpler alternatives like "thoughtful" or "contemplative" in less formal settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extremely pensive" functions as an intensifier (extremely) modifying an adjective (pensive). This combination amplifies the sense of deep thoughtfulness or contemplation. Ludwig's examples show it describing a person's demeanor or a particular moment of reflection.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "extremely pensive" is a grammatically correct expression used to describe a state of deep thoughtfulness or contemplation, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. While grammatically sound, it's relatively rare in occurrence. Usage is most commonly found in News & Media contexts. When writing, it's best used to describe a state of serious reflection, while simpler alternatives might be more appropriate for casual communication. Remember to avoid overusing "extremely pensive" and to consider the context to ensure the phrase aligns with the desired tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deeply thoughtful

Replaces "extremely pensive" with a more common synonym focusing on the depth of thought.

intensely reflective

Highlights the reflective aspect, emphasizing the intensity of contemplation.

profoundly contemplative

Stresses the depth and seriousness of the contemplation.

very meditative

Focuses on the meditative quality of the pensiveness.

lost in thought

Describes the state of being completely absorbed in one's thoughts.

deep in reflection

Emphasizes the act of reflecting deeply on something.

preoccupied with thought

Highlights the state of being absorbed or engrossed in one's thinking.

seriously considering

Focuses on the act of giving serious thought to a matter.

intensely absorbed

Highlights the degree of absorption in one's thoughts.

completely engrossed in thought

Emphasizes the comprehensive nature of the absorption in thinking.

FAQs

How can I use "extremely pensive" in a sentence?

You can use "extremely pensive" to describe someone who is deeply thoughtful or reflective, often in a serious or melancholic way. For example: "As she gazed out the window, lost in her thoughts, she appeared extremely pensive, contemplating the choices she had made."

What are some alternatives to "extremely pensive"?

Alternatives include "deeply thoughtful", "intensely reflective", or "profoundly contemplative", depending on the context and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is "extremely pensive" too formal for casual writing?

Yes, "extremely pensive" can be considered too formal for casual writing. In informal contexts, simpler alternatives like "thoughtful" or "contemplative" may be more appropriate.

What is the difference between "extremely pensive" and "slightly pensive"?

"Extremely pensive" implies a deep and intense state of thoughtfulness, while "slightly pensive" suggests a milder, less profound level of contemplation. The choice depends on the degree of thoughtfulness you want to convey.