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thoughtful

adj.
US //ˈθɔtfəɫ// UK //θˈɔːtfəl// thought·ful
  1. 1 kind and considerate (adj.)
    B1 Intermediate

    thinking about what other people need or what will make them happy.

    demonstrating kindness by anticipating the needs or feelings of others.

    Example

    It was very thoughtful of you to send me a card while I was in the hospital.

    Example

    The host's thoughtful gesture of providing a quiet room for the elderly guests was noted and appreciated by everyone at the wedding.
  2. 2 serious and quiet (adj.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate

    quiet because you are thinking seriously about something.

    absorbed in or showing signs of serious or careful reflection.

    Example

    He had a thoughtful look on his face as he listened to the teacher's explanation.

    Example

    The professor remained thoughtful for a long moment before responding to the student's complex question about ethical philosophy.
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  1. 3 well-planned (adj.)
    C1 Advanced Academic

    showing that a lot of careful thought went into making or doing something.

    characterized by careful reasoning or meticulous planning.

    Example

    The author provides a thoughtful analysis of the country's history in her new book.

    Example

    The committee produced a thoughtful report that addressed the systemic issues within the organisation rather than merely treating the symptoms.
Origin

From Middle English thoȝtful, thohtful, equivalent to thought + -ful. Compare Dutch gedachtenvol, Swedish tankfull.

Word family

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