we were pondering

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we were pondering" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing that you and others were thinking deeply or considering something over a period of time. Example: "As we sat around the table, we were pondering the best approach to solve the problem at hand."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

"Stubbornly confronting each other, we were pondering the relatedness of the species.

The Economist

Before the award, we were pondering on the idea that it could go to experimentalists.

Huffington Post

While we were pondering all of this, we noticed Henry Kissinger, his gaze wandering around the room, and realized that he'd probably seen the exact same Rich Little routine in 1972.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

We're pondering the shape of the earth.

The Economist

We're pondering boys' names a bit in my own castle, as it happens, and I'm thinking both Alaric and Pongo would work very nicely.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

And if we're pondering on world history – as Game of Thrones author George RR Martin's Westeros clearly does – it's rather fitting that the British come top of the charts in the Game of Thrones smash and grab.

Independent

At one moment we are considering the rage that can simmer within a marriage, the next we're pondering the imminent destruction of Israel – in the world of the novel, not imaginary but real.

The Guardian - Books

Just as we're pondering how much energy an avian predator, the shrew's main enemy, would be prepared to expend in return for such a small mouthful, a kestrel sails over the garden.

The Guardian

As for "How to Get Away with Murder," as Rhimes pointed out in the aftermath of Stanley's piece, she is the show's executive producer, not its creator — that would be Peter Nowalk, a white man (and a gay man, as long as we're pondering the identities of creators), who has worked as a writer with Rhimes on other shows.

The New Yorker

"Because we're unbeaten, people want to beat us but it's not something we're pondering and worrying about".

BBC

We are pondering every decision because we don't want to go into the market and make mistakes.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "we were pondering" when you want to convey a sense of thoughtful consideration or reflection by a group. It suggests a deeper level of thought than simply "thinking" or "considering".

Common error

Avoid using "we were pondering" when describing a quick or immediate decision. "Pondering" implies a more extended period of thought, so it's not appropriate for situations requiring rapid action or decisions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we were pondering" functions as a verbal phrase indicating a state of thoughtful consideration or reflection carried out by a group. Ludwig shows examples in news media and other diverse sources, affirming its place in standard English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "we were pondering" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a group engaging in deep thought or reflection. As Ludwig confirms, it appears across various reliable sources, primarily in news and media. While it can be used in various contexts, it is important to use it in situations where thoughtful consideration, not hasty decision-making, is implied. Alternative phrases include "we were considering" and "we were contemplating", offering subtle nuances for different contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we were considering

Focuses more on the act of evaluating different options.

we were contemplating

Implies a more thoughtful and prolonged consideration.

we were reflecting on

Emphasizes thinking deeply about something, often past events.

we were thinking about

A more general term for having something in mind.

we were deliberating

Suggests a formal and careful discussion before making a decision.

we were mulling over

Indicates turning something over in one's mind for some time.

we were weighing up

Highlights the process of balancing different factors.

we were giving thought to

A more formal way of saying we were thinking about.

we were examining

Suggests a detailed and careful investigation.

we were analyzing

Focuses on breaking something down to understand it better.

FAQs

What does "we were pondering" mean?

The phrase "we were pondering" means that a group of people was thinking deeply or carefully about something, often considering different aspects or possibilities.

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

You can use "we were pondering" to describe a situation where a group is engaged in thoughtful reflection. For example, "As a team, "we were pondering" the implications of the new policy".

What can I say instead of "we were pondering"?

You can use alternatives like "we were considering", "we were contemplating", or "we were reflecting on", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "we were pondering about" grammatically correct?

While not strictly incorrect, it's generally better to omit "about" after "pondering". The phrase ""we were pondering"" already implies a focus on a particular subject or issue.