object of contemplation

USAGE SUMMARY

"object of contemplation" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to refer to something that is being considered or thought about deeply. Example: The starry night sky was the perfect object of contemplation for the group of amateur astronomers.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

Recently, I found Mother's wartime identity card, which has become an object of contemplation.

The New Yorker

"It becomes an object of contemplation when you are not wearing it," Castellane explained.

The New Yorker

Six months later, the title holds; what's changed is the object of contemplation.

The New Yorker

For them, the scenes of graphic violence will become an object of contemplation during the first post-Mel Easter week.

The New York Times

By Henri Cole November 7, 2013 Recently, I found Mother's wartime identity card, which has become an object of contemplation.

The New Yorker

…        We must regard the mental picture within us as both an object of contemplation in itself and as a mental picture of something else.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The opposite of point-and-shoot snapshots, these photographs are emblematic objects of contemplation.

The New York Times - Arts

"These are supposed to be lucky, right?" Idols are objects of contemplation, like those little Buddha figurines.

The New York Times

He introduced me to guinea fowl, duck, and turkey eggs, all as food, not as objects of contemplation.

The New Yorker

During the same period the range of objects of contemplation was increased to include the Passion of Christ, visions of saints, and tours of heaven and hell.

Encyclopedia Britannica

The artist said he wanted the 4 million passengers who will be seeing them every day to treat the designs as objects of "contemplation".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "object of contemplation" when you want to emphasize the thoughtful and reflective nature of considering something. For example, a work of art can be described as an "object of contemplation" due to its capacity to evoke thoughtful engagement.

Common error

Avoid using "object of contemplation" to describe something merely interesting or visually appealing. Reserve it for subjects that genuinely inspire deep thought and reflection.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "object of contemplation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. As supported by Ludwig, it identifies something that is the focus of thoughtful consideration. This usage is consistent across various sources.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

29%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Social Media

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "object of contemplation" is a grammatically sound and relatively common term, used to describe something that invites deep, reflective thought. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively designates a subject worthy of thoughtful consideration. While suitable for a variety of contexts, it is most frequently observed in news, scientific, and encyclopedic sources. To ensure accuracy, consider if you are referring to something that genuinely inspires profound thought. While there are several suitable alternatives (such as "subject of reflection" or "focus of attention"), selecting "object of contemplation" appropriately can elevate your writing and clarify your intended emphasis on thoughtfulness.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

subject of reflection

Focuses on the act of reflecting rather than the object itself.

focus of attention

Highlights the attentiveness directed toward the object.

point of consideration

Emphasizes the aspect of being considered or evaluated.

matter for rumination

Indicates a deeper, more thoughtful consideration.

topic of meditation

Suggests a meditative and thoughtful engagement.

theme for reflection

Similar to subject of reflection, but perhaps broader in scope.

center of thought

Highlights the centrality of the object to one's thinking.

area of introspection

Indicates self-reflection prompted by the object.

source of inspiration

Implies the object stimulates creative or insightful thinking.

study in detail

Focus on deep consideration through intense inspection.

FAQs

How can I use "object of contemplation" in a sentence?

You can use "object of contemplation" to describe something that invites deep thought, such as "The philosopher viewed the ancient text as an "object of contemplation"."

What are some alternatives to "object of contemplation"?

Alternatives include "subject of reflection", "focus of attention", or "point of consideration" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "object of contemplation" formal or informal?

"Object of contemplation" tends to be a more formal phrase, suitable for academic, literary, or philosophical contexts. Simpler terms might be preferable in informal settings.

What's the difference between "object of contemplation" and "object of desire"?

"Object of contemplation" refers to something that prompts thoughtful reflection, while "object of desire" indicates something that evokes longing or wanting. The former is about thought, the latter is about wanting.