# contemplative

/kənˈtɛmpɫətɪv/ (US) · /kəntˈɛmplətˌɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/contemplative
Updated: 2026-05-19

## Definition

thinking deeply about something. You use this to describe someone who is quiet and serious because they are thinking about a difficult or important subject.

For teachers: engaged in deep thought or meditation; characterized by a state of quiet reflection. Often used to describe a person's demeanor or a specific mental state.

## Examples

- He sat in a contemplative silence after the meeting.
- The patient's contemplative expression suggested she was deeply considering the doctor's advice before making a decision.
- The philosopher's contemplative nature allowed him to observe the world's complexities without immediate judgment, leading to a more nuanced understanding of human behavior.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.