we were contemplating

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were contemplating" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing thoughts, ideas, or decisions that are being considered or reflected upon. Example: "During our meeting, we were contemplating the best approach to tackle the upcoming project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

By midway through the next day's play we were contemplating surrender.

The Guardian - Sport

The idea was to look as solemn as possible, like we were contemplating".

The Guardian

Councillor Derrick Morgan warned the public protection committee that we were contemplating this action.

The Guardian

"There are certain things we were contemplating doing that S.I. got wind of and has co-opted," Mr. Papanek said.

The New York Times

"He was asking all the questions you would want a president to ask as we were contemplating war," he said.

The New York Times

"We were contemplating creating a proper working theater out of the shambolic, unhygienic, aesthetically problematic mess we had," said Stephen Daldry, the former artistic director.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

So what measures should we be contemplating?

Harvard Business Review

"It is definitely something we are contemplating.

The Guardian

"We are contemplating going down the stairwell.

The New York Times

"We are contemplating going up to 20percentt".

The New York Times

We're not sure yet, but we're contemplating ideas.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were contemplating" when you want to convey a sense of thoughtful consideration or deliberation, often regarding a significant decision or future plan. It adds a layer of depth and seriousness to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "we were contemplating" in very informal contexts or casual conversations. Opt for simpler alternatives like "we were thinking about" to maintain a natural tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were contemplating" functions as a verb phrase indicating a past state of considering or thinking deeply about something. This is supported by Ludwig, which provides examples demonstrating its use in various contexts where thoughtful consideration is involved.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

40%

Science

0%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were contemplating" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase in written English, used to indicate that a group was thoughtfully considering something in the past. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammatical rules. While not as common as simpler alternatives, it is appropriate for formal and semi-formal contexts, such as news reporting and academic writing. When a more casual tone is required, consider alternatives like "we were thinking about".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were considering

This alternative is more direct and less formal than "contemplating".

we were thinking about

This option is more casual and implies a less structured thought process.

we were pondering

This phrase suggests a deeper, more reflective consideration.

we were mulling over

This implies a slow, thoughtful consideration, often over a period of time.

we were weighing

This option suggests a careful assessment of different options.

we were assessing

This option conveys a more formal and analytical evaluation.

we were evaluating

This alternative is similar to "assessing" but emphasizes determining the value or significance.

we were exploring

This suggests investigating different possibilities or options.

we were envisioning

This alternative implies imagining or picturing a future scenario.

we were projecting

This suggests making a prediction or forecast based on current information.

FAQs

How can I use "we were contemplating" in a sentence?

You can use "we were contemplating" to express that a group was considering something, such as "We were contemplating a move to a new city" or "We were contemplating the implications of the new policy".

What are some alternatives to "we were contemplating"?

Alternatives include "we were considering", "we were thinking about", or "we were pondering", depending on the level of formality and depth of thought you want to convey.

Is "we were contemplating" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "we were contemplating" is suitable for formal writing. It conveys a thoughtful and deliberate consideration, making it appropriate for professional or academic contexts.

What is the difference between "we were contemplating" and "we are contemplating"?

"We were contemplating" refers to a past consideration, while "we are contemplating" refers to a present consideration. The choice depends on whether you are discussing a past or ongoing thought process.