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contemplation - Word of the Day - Wed Jun 24, 2026

Myr

Entry posted by Myr in Word of the Day

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contemplation - (n) - deep or serious thought about a matter.

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Contemplation replaced urgency as the truth settled in.

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Author tip: Contemplative scenes work well between plot peaks.
Genre tags: Literary, Drama

 

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drpaladin

drpaladin 115,170
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Many important matters are decided on the Seat of Contemplation, otherwise known as a toilet 

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Paladin

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2 hours ago, drpaladin said:

Many important matters are decided on the Seat of Contemplation, otherwise known as a toilet 

Potentially shitty decisions.

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drpaladin

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34 minutes ago, Paladin said:

Potentially shitty decisions.

You flush those out.

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Paladin

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3 minutes ago, drpaladin said:

You flush those out.

It you're not anal retentive.

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sandrewn

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Just the facts:

CONTEMPLATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

CONTEMPLATION Synonyms: 28 Similar Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus

CONTEMPLATE Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

CONTEMPLATIVE Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

SELF-CONTEMPLATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

IN CONTEMPLATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

CONTEMPLATIONS Synonyms: 25 Similar Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus

 

:cowboy:(Today I decided to forgo with the outhouse humor) I had a severe case of the trots last week.

Edited by sandrewn
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Bill W

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The word "contemplation" enters the English language around 1200, tracing its roots to the Latin noun contemplatio and the verb contemplari, meaning to observe or gaze attentively.   At its origin, it literally means "to mark out a space for observation".  It is built from the prefix com- (meaning "together" or acting as an intensive) and templum (a temple or consecrated ground). In ancient Rome, a templum was a specific, ritually cleared open space designated by an augur to observe the sky and interpret omens.  Over time, the act of gazing into this sacred space to seek signs evolved into a broader meaning of observing anything deeply, thoughtfully, and with focused attention.  

According to the Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the noun contemplation was first used in English during the Middle English Period (1150-1500), with the earliest documented appearance recorded around 1225 in the religious guidance text Ancrene Riwle.  The term originates from a blend of Old French and Latin roots (contemplātiōn-, contemplātiō), originally referring to religious meditation or looking at something attentively.  
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Bill W

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Contemplation in storytelling is the deliberate inclusion of quiet moments, pauses, and reflective imagery that invite the audience to look inward. It slows the pacing down, allowing readers to digest events, connect with characters' internal experiences, and uncover deeper truths .

Integrating contemplation into narratives serves several important functions:  
Deepens Emotional Resonance: Contemplative writing allows audiences to experience Descriptive Anchor Text viscerally rather than just following plot points. It builds empathy, helping the reader share in a character's grief, joy, or growth.  
Creates Meaningful Pacing: By offering pauses and utilizing silence, writers create a necessary rhythm. This contrast between high-stakes conflict and quiet reflection prevents narrative burnout and keeps the reader immersed.  
Encourages Introspection: Contemplative passages act as a prompt for the audience. Instead of spoon-feeding a moral, a thoughtful narrative allows the audience to reflect on their own beliefs, values, and experiences.  
Fosters Shared Humanity: Personal narratives and mindful storytelling function as Descriptive Anchor Text vehicles for truth. Sharing space with the reader creates a bond of trust and mutual understanding. 

For creators and readers alike, integrating contemplative practices into stories transforms writing from a mere sequence of events into a resonant, almost meditative experience.
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drpaladin

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3 hours ago, sandrewn said:

Just the facts:

CONTEMPLATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

CONTEMPLATION Synonyms: 28 Similar Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus

CONTEMPLATE Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

CONTEMPLATIVE Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

SELF-CONTEMPLATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

IN CONTEMPLATION Definition & Meaning - Merriam-Webster

CONTEMPLATIONS Synonyms: 25 Similar Words | Merriam-Webster Thesaurus

 

:cowboy:(Today I decided to forgo with the outhouse humor) I had a severe case of the trots last week.

A case of overcontenplation

Edited by drpaladin
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