ponder
Definitions
To think about something carefully and at length before deciding or reaching a conclusion
（在下决定前）仔细而长久地考虑、深思
Root Breakdown
Root-derivedponder comes straight from Latin ponderāre, 'to weigh.' To ponder is to put a question on the scale of your mind — laying out reasons on each side and watching which way it tips. That is why it feels slower and weightier than 'think': you are deliberately weighing, not just having a thought.
Root pond still carries 7 more wordsUsage Guide
- ponder + object: ponder the meaning, ponder a decision
- ponder over / on something: emphasizes lingering, drawn-out reflection
- ponder whether / how / what: ponder whether to go
Register: slightly literary/formal. In everyday speech 'think about' is more natural; ponder suggests slow, serious weighing.
Example Sentences
- 1.
She sat by the window, pondering whether to accept the job offer.
- 2.
He pondered the question for a long time before answering.
- 3.
We need to ponder the long-term consequences of this decision.
- 4.
I've been pondering over your suggestion all weekend.
Synonym Comparison
- ponder — weigh something slowly and deliberately in the mind
- consider — look at something to form a judgment; broader, more neutral
- contemplate — gaze at mentally, often calm or philosophical
- mull (over) — informal, turn something over casually
- deliberate — weigh formally, often as a group before a decision