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wondered

v.
US //ˈwəndɝd// UK //wˈʌndəd// won·dered
  1. 1 to be curious (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    thought about something because you wanted to know more or were curious.

    expressed curiosity or a desire to know something; often introduces an interrogative clause.

    Example

    I wondered why the shop was closed so early on a Tuesday.

    Example

    As the afternoon faded into evening, she wondered whether the letter she had posted would reach its destination before the weekend.

    Usage

    Often followed by 'if', 'whether', or 'wh-' question words.
    Pitfall
    I wondered that where she was.
    I wondered where she was.

    Do not use 'that' before a question word like 'where', 'how', or 'if' when using 'wondered'.

  2. 2 to ask politely (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    used to ask for something or suggest something in a very polite way.

    used in the past continuous or simple past to frame a polite request or inquiry to avoid sounding too direct.

    Example

    I wondered if you could help me carry these heavy bags upstairs.

    Example

    The receptionist wondered if the guest would prefer a room overlooking the garden rather than the busy main street.

    Usage

    Commonly used in the pattern 'I wondered if...' to soften a request.
  3. 3 to feel surprise (v.)
    C1 Advanced Literary

    felt very surprised or amazed by something.

    felt admiration or amazement at something remarkable or unexpected.

    Example

    The travellers wondered at the height of the ancient stone walls.

    Example

    The historians wondered at the preservation of the scrolls, which had remained untouched in the desert cave for nearly two millennia.

    Usage

    Usually takes the preposition 'at'.
    • marveled
    • gaped

Last updated June 19, 2026