i was contemplating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was contemplating" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing thoughts or reflections on a particular subject or decision in the past. Example: "I was contemplating whether to accept the job offer or pursue further studies."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

Maybe I was contemplating the sky.

The New Yorker

Now I was contemplating an abortion myself.

The New York Times

That is what I was contemplating on the long journey back from the Russian frontier.

Independent

On my last trip to Italy I was contemplating a novel in three voices.

The New York Times - Books

It made me feel that I was contemplating the ruins of 60 years of work.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

That picnic I was contemplating when I landed at the airport?

The Washington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Unfortunately, sport-utility vehicles that accommodated more than five passengers were not available at any of the three travel sites for the dates I was contemplating.

The New York Times - Tech

I suppose I was… contemplating things actually.

BMC Pregnancy and Childbirth

I was contemplating the nuanced difference between standing and parking when I spotted a pair of signs on 40th Street near Avenue of the Americas.

The New York Times

As I was contemplating the many scenarios the figures evoked — an immigration raid?

The New York Times - Arts

When I was contemplating an engineering career during my high school years, I had a limited knowledge of what lay ahead academically and on the job.

Technical Career Survival Handbook 100 Things You Need to Know

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "i was contemplating", ensure that the subsequent context clarifies what you were considering. Provide enough information to make your thought process understandable to the reader.

Common error

While "i was contemplating" is grammatically correct, it can sound overly formal in casual conversation or informal writing. In such cases, consider using simpler alternatives like "i was thinking about" or "i was considering" to maintain a more natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "i was contemplating" functions as an intransitive verb phrase indicating a state of thinking deeply or considering something. It typically introduces a clause explaining what the subject was considering, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "i was contemplating" is a grammatically sound and widely used expression for describing a state of thoughtful consideration in the past. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and suitability for various writing contexts. While versatile, it's important to consider the level of formality required, opting for simpler alternatives like "i was considering" in casual settings. The phrase sees frequent use across news and media sources, providing context to decisions and reflections. Remember to follow with a clear explanation of what you were contemplating to ensure clarity for the reader.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i was considering

Replaces "contemplating" with a more general term for thinking about something.

i was pondering

Suggests a deeper, more thoughtful consideration.

i was reflecting on

Emphasizes the act of looking back and thinking about something.

i was thinking about

A simpler, more direct way of expressing the same idea.

i was mulling over

Implies a slow, careful consideration.

i was giving thought to

A more formal and deliberate way of saying "thinking about".

i was weighing up

Focuses on evaluating different options or aspects.

i was assessing

Highlights the process of evaluating the situation.

i was deliberating

Implies a careful and thorough discussion with oneself.

i was examining

Suggests a close and detailed inspection of the idea.

FAQs

What does "I was contemplating" mean?

It means you were seriously considering something, thinking deeply about it, or reflecting on it. It suggests a deliberate thought process in the past.

How can I use "I was contemplating" in a sentence?

You can use it to introduce a thought process or a decision you were considering. For example, "I was contemplating whether to accept the job offer or continue my studies."

What can I say instead of "I was contemplating"?

You can use alternatives like "i was considering", "i was pondering", or "i was thinking about" depending on the context.

Is "I was contemplating" formal or informal?

"I was contemplating" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it leans towards the formal side. In very casual settings, simpler alternatives might be more appropriate.