Musing: meaning, definitions and examples

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musing

 

[ ˈmjuːzɪŋ ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

deep thought

A period of deep thought or reflection.

Synonyms

contemplation, pensive, reflection.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
musing

Used when someone is deep in thought, especially with a slightly dreamy or whimsical tone.

  • She sat by the window, lost in her musings about the meaning of life
contemplation

Used in serious situations where deep thinking or consideration is involved, often without any immediate conclusion.

  • After much contemplation, he decided to quit his job and travel the world
reflection

Used for thoughtful consideration, often involving looking back on past events or experiences. Can be used in a neutral or positive tone.

  • In reflection, she realized that the challenges she faced helped her grow stronger
pensive

Used to describe a person who is deeply or seriously thoughtful, often with a touch of sadness or concern.

  • He gave her a pensive look, clearly troubled by the news

Examples of usage

  • She was lost in her musings for hours.
  • His musings often led to great insights.
Context #2 | Noun

amusing

Something that is amusing or entertaining.

Synonyms

enjoyable, entertaining, funny.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
musing

Repeated entry.

entertaining

Use 'entertaining' when describing something that holds people's attention and provides amusement or enjoyment.

  • The magician's show was highly entertaining.
  • He has a talent for telling entertaining stories.
funny

Use 'funny' to refer to something that causes laughter or amusement. This word is often used for humor or jokes.

  • His joke was really funny.
  • She found the comedian incredibly funny.
enjoyable

Use 'enjoyable' to describe something that brings pleasure or satisfaction.

  • The picnic at the park was very enjoyable.
  • She found the movie to be quite enjoyable.

Examples of usage

  • The cat's antics provided endless musing for the family.
  • The comedian's musing had the audience in stitches.
Context #3 | Verb

contemplation

To engage in thought or contemplation.

Synonyms

consider, ponder, reflect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
musing

Use 'musing' when someone is deeply in thought, often in a dreamy or reflective way. It is typically used to describe a process of contemplation that is somewhat detached and whimsical.

  • She sat by the window, lost in her musings about the future.
  • His musings on life often led him to unexpected ideas.
ponder

Use 'ponder' when you are thinking deeply and seriously about something, usually for an extended period. It indicates a thorough and weighty consideration.

  • He pondered the meaning of the cryptic message.
  • After the meeting, she took a moment to ponder their next move.
reflect

'Reflect' is ideal for situations where someone is thinking back on past experiences or considering the implications of something thoughtfully. It often implies a deeper and more personal level of thought.

  • He reflected on his childhood memories with a sense of nostalgia.
  • After the incident, she took some time to reflect on what went wrong.
consider

'Consider' is best used when evaluating or thinking about something carefully and deliberately, often before making a decision.

  • Before making the investment, he took some time to consider all the risks.
  • She considered his offer thoughtfully before replying.

Examples of usage

  • She mused about the meaning of life.
  • He often mused on the mysteries of the universe.

Translations

Translations of the word "musing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 meditação

🇮🇳 चिंतन

🇩🇪 nachdenklich

🇮🇩 merenung

🇺🇦 роздуми

🇵🇱 rozmyślanie

🇯🇵 黙考 (もっこう)

🇫🇷 réflexion

🇪🇸 reflexión

🇹🇷 düşünceli

🇰🇷 숙고

🇸🇦 تأمل

🇨🇿 hloubání

🇸🇰 úvaha

🇨🇳 沉思 (chénsī)

🇸🇮 razmišljanje

🇮🇸 íhugun

🇰🇿 ойлану

🇬🇪 აზრი

🇦🇿 düşüncə

🇲🇽 reflexión

Etymology

The word 'musing' has its origin in Middle English, derived from the Old French word 'muser' which means 'to ponder, dream, wonder'. Over time, the word evolved to encompass both deep thought and amusement. It has been used in English literature for centuries to convey moments of contemplation and entertainment.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,552, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.