lost in contemplation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "lost in contemplation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of deep thought or reflection, often implying that someone is absorbed in their thoughts to the point of being unaware of their surroundings. Example: "As she sat by the window, lost in contemplation, the world outside faded away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Others seem lost in contemplation". De Maria is now planning his next sphere.

The Guardian - Arts

He was constantly on the road, speaking at international conferences, and lost in contemplation of relativity.

Britannica

They sit, stretch, lounge, stand, and are often lost in contemplation, their eyes averted.

The New Yorker

Sure enough, the actress was already lost in contemplation of her entrance on a golden bier drawn by Nubian slaves.

The Guardian

The people he paints are often alone, like the insomniac, lost in contemplation, looking out the window.

The New York Times - Books

Mr. Obama's Lincoln is vaguely mystical: when he is not gathering the four winds to his cause, he is lost in contemplation.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

Henry VIII glares confidently out of the picture, Henry VII is lost in wan contemplation.

The Guardian

Elsewhere, the children simply lie back and gaze up at the sky, lost in vacant contemplation: an image that shows that, if Times and Winds is so eloquent about the mysteries of nature, the film covertly has just as much to say about the dreamy pleasures of cinema itself.

Independent

She is frequently naked, but her face, in arousal, could be that of a saint, lost in religious contemplation, and her bare breast is also the clothed breast that she instinctively cups, mid-song, as if striving to hold her heart in.

The New Yorker

For the first time in my life, I was able to understand the words, "The angels are lost in perpetual contemplation of an infinite glory".

Huffington Post

For the first time in my life I was able to understand the meaning of the words, "The angels are lost in perpetual contemplation of an infinite glory... .. I've heard it said that a person can deal with any "what" as long as they have a "why".

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "lost in contemplation" to vividly depict a character or subject deeply absorbed in their thoughts, creating a sense of introspection and detachment from their immediate surroundings. This phrase works well in descriptive writing where conveying a mood of thoughtfulness is desired.

Common error

Avoid using "lost in contemplation" when describing situations that require immediate action or awareness. This phrase implies a lack of engagement with the present moment, making it unsuitable for scenes where characters need to be alert and responsive.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lost in contemplation" primarily functions as a descriptive element, often an adjective phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. It depicts a state of deep, focused thought, as seen in Ludwig examples where individuals are described as being "lost in contemplation" of art, ideas, or personal matters. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

15%

Science

15%

Less common in

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "lost in contemplation" is a grammatically sound and conceptually rich expression used to describe a state of deep, focused thought. According to Ludwig AI, it is usable in written English. While not exceedingly common, its appearance in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian suggests a degree of formality and sophistication. It is most frequently found in News & Media, Encyclopaedia and Science sources. Alternatives such as ""absorbed in thought"" or ""deep in thought"" can offer similar meanings, but lack the specific nuance of deliberate and careful consideration implied by "contemplation". When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with the context, avoiding situations that require immediate action, and instead favoring descriptive scenarios that benefit from a sense of thoughtfulness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deep in thought

A more general phrase indicating a state of profound thinking.

absorbed in thought

Focuses more on the state of being completely occupied by one's thoughts.

engrossed in reflection

Emphasizes the reflective nature of the thought process, suggesting a careful consideration of something.

pondering deeply

Emphasizes the act of weighing and considering something carefully.

reflecting intently

Highlights the focused and purposeful nature of the reflection.

immersed in meditation

Specifically refers to a meditative state, implying a focused and often spiritual contemplation.

meditating profoundly

Similar to immersed in meditation, but emphasizes the depth and significance of the meditation.

preoccupied with musing

Suggests a state of being mentally occupied with one's thoughts, often in a wistful or dreamy way.

rapt in consideration

Implies a state of being completely fascinated and absorbed in careful thought.

consumed by rumination

Indicates a state of being overwhelmed by deep and often anxious thought.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "lost in contemplation" in a sentence?

Use "lost in contemplation" to describe someone deeply absorbed in thought, often to the exclusion of their surroundings. For example, "She sat by the window, "lost in contemplation", as the rain fell outside".

What are some alternatives to "lost in contemplation"?

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

In what contexts is it most appropriate to use the phrase "lost in contemplation"?

"Lost in contemplation" is most appropriate in descriptive or narrative writing where you want to emphasize a character's internal thoughts and detachment from the external world. It often appears in literary works or reflective pieces.

What is the difference between "lost in contemplation" and "lost in thought"?

"Lost in thought" is a more general term for being deeply absorbed in one's thoughts. "Lost in contemplation" implies a more deliberate and focused form of thinking, often involving careful consideration or reflection on a specific topic or idea. Contemplation suggests a deeper, more meaningful thought process.