something to contemplate

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "something to contemplate" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to an idea, thought, or situation that warrants deep thought or consideration. Example: "The implications of climate change are something to contemplate for future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Something to contemplate about the Packers: they made their Super Bowl run entirely on the road.

The New York Times

Mars – a contrary but exciting energy – gives romantics something to contemplate (a scary Leo, perhaps).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Cooper believes that the arrival of ASCI White should lift the spirits of workers, giving them something to contemplate besides stolen disks and delayed projects.

Forbes

Here's something to contemplate.

Los Angeles Times

Deep amber, this vintage Armagnac made from 100% Baco grape is a little rough and sexy, truly something to contemplate.

Los Angeles Times

So here's something to contemplate in the moments of lame dialogue that lurk between Joe's explosions and chases: American audiences seem largely in accord with the international crowd.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Moreover, if Brooks wants something ineffable to contemplate, I suggest he think about quarks, the expanding universe or the evolution of human consciousness from bacteria.

The New York Times - Books

But beyond the shock of losing for the first time since April 1, the Lakers had something else to contemplate before Game 2. For the first time in the playoffs, they ran up against a physical, defensive-minded team that would not back down when tested.

The New York Times - Sports

So, when you ask twenty-something Westerners to contemplate parenthood -- with its diapers, school runs, and estimated $250,000 cost of raising a child to adulthood -- they think you fell off the moon.

Huffington Post

It's not something you want to contemplate for long".

The New York Times

Glenn Murray laughs it off as a quirk, something too freakish to contemplate, but deep down he must be glowing.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "something to contemplate" when introducing a thought-provoking idea or situation that requires careful consideration. It's effective for prompting reflection in your audience.

Common error

Avoid using "something to contemplate" in everyday conversations where a simpler phrase like "something to think about" would be more appropriate. This phrase carries a degree of formality.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "something to contemplate" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the object of a sentence or clause. It introduces a topic or idea that warrants careful thought and consideration, as supported by Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "something to contemplate" is a grammatically correct and frequently used phrase that introduces a topic deserving of careful thought. Ludwig AI confirms its usability. It is commonly found in news and media contexts, serving to prompt reflection on significant ideas. While versatile, it's best used when a thoughtful and considered tone is desired, avoiding overuse in casual settings. Consider alternatives like "a matter for consideration" or "a point to ponder" for nuanced expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

matter for consideration

Changes the structure while keeping the focus on the need for consideration.

point to ponder

Replaces "something" with "point" to shift the emphasis and "contemplate" with the simpler "ponder".

idea to reflect on

Uses "idea" instead of "something" and "reflect on" instead of "contemplate", making it slightly more informal.

subject for deliberation

Emphasizes a more formal and thorough process of thinking.

issue to consider

Simplifies the phrase by using "issue" and "consider", making it more direct.

thought for reflection

Focuses on the "thought" aspect and uses "reflection" as a noun.

item for consideration

Substitutes "something" with "item", implying a more concrete focus.

concept to meditate on

Suggests a deeper, more prolonged form of thinking.

topic for reflection

Similar to "thought for reflection" but using "topic" for a specific subject.

area for consideration

Implies a broader scope needing examination.

FAQs

How can I use "something to contemplate" in a sentence?

You can use "something to contemplate" to introduce an idea or situation that requires deep thought. For example: "The long-term effects of social media on mental health are "something to contemplate"."

What phrases are similar in meaning to "something to contemplate"?

Alternatives to "something to contemplate" include "a matter to ponder", "an issue to reflect on", or "a point to consider". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "something to contemplate" in formal writing?

Yes, "something to contemplate" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a sense of thoughtful consideration and is appropriate in academic, professional, and news contexts.

What's the difference between "something to contemplate" and "something to think about"?

"Something to contemplate" implies a deeper, more prolonged reflection than "something to think about". The former suggests a need for careful consideration, while the latter is more general.