Deliberating: meaning, definitions and examples

Used often in formal or serious situations where a group is discussing something thoroughly before making a decision.

• The jury is still deliberating the verdict
• The council spent hours deliberating over the new policy

Used in everyday situations when someone is thinking about something carefully before making a decision.

• I am considering a career change
• She is considering whether to join us for dinner

Used when someone is thinking deeply about something, often in a more reflective or philosophical manner.

• He is contemplating the meaning of life
• She spent the evening contemplating her future

Used when someone is thinking about something seriously and often for a long time.

• He was pondering the implications of the new law
• She sat by the window, pondering her next move

Used when someone is thinking back on past experiences or considering them thoughtfully.

• He spent the afternoon reflecting on his childhood
• She is reflecting on her time spent abroad

This word is often used when people are carefully considering or thinking about something, especially in a formal setting like a jury deliberating a verdict.

• The jury is deliberating over the evidence
• They spent hours deliberating whether to accept the offer

Discussing is a general term used when people talk about something in detail, often to share ideas or make a decision.

• They were discussing the plans for the trip
• We need to discuss the project deadline

Debating implies a structured or formal discussion, often with opposing viewpoints. It can also refer to informal arguments where people express differing opinions.

• They were debating the merits of the new policy
• The students participated in a debating competition

Conversing is simply talking or having a conversation with someone. It's a general term for any form of verbal communication.

• They were conversing happily at the party
• She enjoys conversing with her friends over coffee