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Pensively: meaning, definitions and examples

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pensively

 

[ ˈpɛn.sɪv.li ]

Adverb
Context #1 | Adverb

thoughtful mood

Pensively is an adverb that describes an action done in a thoughtful or reflective manner. When someone acts pensively, they are usually contemplating something deeply, often with a serious or melancholic expression. This word often conveys a sense of introspection or concern. It can suggest that the person is lost in thought, possibly concerning past events or future possibilities.

Synonyms

broodingly, contemplatively, musingly, reflectively, thoughtfully

Examples of usage

  • She gazed pensively out the window.
  • He walked pensively through the park.
  • They sat pensively, considering their options.

Translations

Translations of the word "pensively" in other languages:

🇵🇹 pensativamente

🇮🇳 चिंतित रूप से

🇩🇪 nachdenklich

🇮🇩 dengan berpikir

🇺🇦 замислено

🇵🇱 zamyślony

🇯🇵 考え込んで

🇫🇷 pensivement

🇪🇸 pensativamente

🇹🇷 düşünceli bir şekilde

🇰🇷 생각에 잠겨서

🇸🇦 بتفكير عميق

🇨🇿 zamyslně

🇸🇰 zamyslene

🇨🇳 沉思地

🇸🇮 premišljeno

🇮🇸 hugsi

🇰🇿 ойлану арқылы

🇬🇪 დაფიქრდებით

🇦🇿 düşüncəli şəkildə

🇲🇽 pensativamente

Etymology

The word 'pensively' comes from the root 'pensive,' which originated from the Middle French term 'pensif,' meaning 'thoughtful' or 'sorrowful.' This, in turn, stems from the Latin word 'pensare,' which means 'to weigh or ponder.' Over time, 'pensively' developed to describe an action characterized by deep thought or contemplation. The evolution of this term reflects the human tendency to reflect on various aspects of life, often accompanied by a mix of emotions, including sadness or concern. The use of 'pensively' in literature can often evoke a sense of mood or theme related to introspection and emotional depth, adding a layer of complexity to narrative styles.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #29,936, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.