in deep contemplation

USAGE SUMMARY

"in deep contemplation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to describe a person who is focusing intently on a particular thought or idea. For example, "John sat silently in deep contemplation, trying to come up with a solution to his problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Djokovic closes his eyes in deep contemplation during the break.

The Guardian - Sport

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

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

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Why is it that the streets and squares are emptying so quickly, and everyone's returning home in such deep contemplation?

The New Yorker

Caius at that time returning from the market-place, made a stop just before his father's statue, and fixing his eyes for some time upon it, remained in a deep contemplation; at length he sighed, shed tears, and departed.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

"Hmm," Nancy said, closing her eyes and trying to look as if she was in a state of deep contemplation.

The New York Times

Whatever religion or belief system that you align you with, or even if you don't align yourself with any organized religion at all, you need to carve out time in your schedule for deep contemplation and meditative training.

WikiHow

In the Hindi lexicon, manthan signifies a deep contemplation and churning of facts that leads to enlightenment.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a setting that encourages introspection, use the phrase to suggest the environment’s influence on the characters within it.

Common error

Avoid using "in deep contemplation" when a simpler phrase like "thinking" or "reflecting" would suffice. Overusing 'deep' can diminish its impact and make your writing sound overwrought. Reserve it for moments of genuine, profound thought.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "in deep contemplation" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb, often describing the manner in which someone is engaging in thought. It indicates a state of profound and serious reflection. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Wiki

29%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Science

14%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "in deep contemplation" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase, as confirmed by Ludwig, used to describe a state of profound and serious reflection. It appears most frequently in News & Media sources. When using the phrase, be sure to reserve it for situations genuinely characterized by intense thought, rather than as a generic intensifier. Consider alternatives like "in profound thought" or "lost in thought" to fine-tune the meaning. While versatile, it’s best suited for neutral to formal contexts where the depth of thinking needs emphasis.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in profound thought

Emphasizes the depth and significance of the thought process.

in serious reflection

Highlights the gravity and earnestness of the reflective state.

in thoughtful consideration

Focuses on the careful and deliberate nature of the thinking.

in meditative absorption

Suggests a state of complete immersion in meditation.

lost in thought

Indicates a state of being so engrossed in thinking as to be unaware of one's surroundings.

preoccupied with thought

Highlights that the person's mind is fully occupied with their thoughts.

absorbed in reflection

Stresses the completeness of immersion in reflective thought.

engrossed in contemplation

Similar to 'absorbed', but emphasizes the holding of the mind by the thought.

pondering intently

Focuses on the intense and sustained nature of the pondering.

ruminating thoughtfully

Implies a slow, cyclical process of thinking something over.

FAQs

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

You can use "in deep contemplation" to describe someone who is thinking seriously and profoundly about something. For example, "She sat by the window, lost "in deep contemplation", pondering her next move."

What are some alternatives to "in deep contemplation"?

Some alternatives to "in deep contemplation" include "in profound thought", "in serious reflection", or "lost in thought", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it more appropriate to say "in deep contemplation" or "in deep thought"?

Both phrases are grammatically correct, but ""in deep contemplation"" suggests a more prolonged and intense period of thinking than "in deep thought". Use ""in deep contemplation"" when emphasizing the gravity and complexity of the thinking process.

What does it mean to be "in deep contemplation" of something?

To be ""in deep contemplation"" of something means to be seriously and thoughtfully considering it, often involving a prolonged period of reflection and analysis. It implies a level of engagement beyond casual thinking.