# wondering

/ˈwəndɝɪŋ/ (US) · /wˈʌndəɹɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/wondering
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. thinking with curiosity

verb · CEFR B1

thinking about something because you want to know more or are curious.

For teachers: the present participle of 'wonder', expressing the mental state of curiosity or speculation about a fact or event.

- I was wondering why the shop was closed so early today.
- She sat by the window for hours, wondering whether her decision to move abroad would ultimately lead to the career growth she desired.

Usage: Often followed by 'if', 'whether', or 'wh-' clauses.

### 2. polite request

verb · CEFR B1

a very polite way to ask someone for help or information.

For teachers: used in the progressive aspect to frame a request or inquiry with increased social distance and politeness.

- I was wondering if you could help me carry these bags.
- I was wondering if you might have a moment to review the draft before the final submission this afternoon.

Usage: Typically used in the past continuous ('I was wondering') to sound more indirect and polite.

### 3. the act of questioning

noun · CEFR B2

the feeling or act of being curious about something.

For teachers: the gerund form used as a noun to describe the internal process of speculation or doubt.

- After much wondering, he finally decided to ask for the truth.
- There was a great deal of wondering among the staff regarding the sudden departure of the chief executive.

### 4. showing curiosity

adjective · CEFR C1 · Literary

showing that you are curious or thinking deeply about something.

For teachers: describing a look, tone, or attitude that conveys curiosity or a desire for explanation.

- She gave him a wondering look when he told the strange story.
- He turned toward her with a wondering expression, as if seeing the familiar landscape for the first time through new eyes.

## Examples

- I was wondering if you have any free time today.
- She spent the whole afternoon wondering whether she had made the right decision about the job offer.
- While staring at the ancient ruins, the tourists found themselves wondering how such massive stones could have been transported across the desert without modern machinery.

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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.