Contemplation: meaning, definitions and examples

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contemplation

 

[ ˌkɑːntəmˈpleɪʃən ]

Context #1

deep thought

Contemplation is the act of thinking deeply about something. It involves focused attention and reflection.

Synonyms

meditation, pondering, reflection

Examples of usage

  • Her face was a picture of contemplation as she pondered the meaning of life.
  • Contemplation of nature can bring a sense of peace and tranquility.
Context #2

religious context

In a religious context, contemplation refers to a form of prayer or meditation that involves quiet reflection and connection with the divine.

Synonyms

devotion, meditation, prayer

Examples of usage

  • Monks spend hours in contemplation, seeking spiritual enlightenment.
  • Contemplation of scripture is an essential part of many religious practices.
Context #3

artistic context

In an artistic context, contemplation may refer to the act of considering or interpreting a piece of art or literature.

Synonyms

consideration, interpretation, reflection

Examples of usage

  • Art critics often engage in deep contemplation of a painting before forming an opinion.
  • The novel invites contemplation on themes of love and loss.

Translations

Translations of the word "contemplation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 contemplação

🇮🇳 चिंतन

🇩🇪 Betrachtung

🇮🇩 kontemplasi

🇺🇦 споглядання

🇵🇱 kontemplacja

🇯🇵 熟考 (じゅっこう)

🇫🇷 contemplation

🇪🇸 contemplación

🇹🇷 tefekkür

🇰🇷 심사숙고 (深思熟考)

🇸🇦 تأمل

🇨🇿 kontemplace

🇸🇰 kontemplácia

🇨🇳 沉思 (chénsī)

🇸🇮 kontemplacija

🇮🇸 íhugun

🇰🇿 ойлану

🇬🇪 კონტემპლაცია

🇦🇿 təfəkkür

🇲🇽 contemplación

Word origin

The word 'contemplation' originated from the Latin word 'contemplatio', which means 'observation' or 'contemplation'. It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the act of thoughtful observation or reflection. Over the centuries, the term has come to be associated with deep thought, meditation, and reflection in various contexts, including religious, philosophical, and artistic. The concept of contemplation has played a significant role in the development of spiritual practices and philosophical inquiry.

See also: contemplating, contemplative, contemplatively, contemplativeness, contemplator.