C1 verb Formal to semi-formal. It's more common in written language, literature, and philosophical discussions.

contemplare

/kon.temˈpla.re/

Exemples

1

Ho passato ore a contemplare il tramonto sul mare.

I spent hours contemplating the sunset over the sea.

2

Il filosofo ama contemplare la natura umana.

The philosopher loves to contemplate human nature.

3

Contemplava la statua con ammirazione.

He gazed at the statue with admiration.

4

È importante contemplare le proprie scelte future.

It's important to contemplate one's future choices.

5

Spesso, mi piace contemplare le stelle di notte.

Often, I like to contemplate the stars at night.

Collocations courantes

contemplare la bellezza (to contemplate beauty)
contemplare il panorama (to contemplate the panorama)
contemplare l'idea (to contemplate the idea)

How to Use It

Notes d'usage

'Contemplare' often carries a connotation of admiration, deep thought, or a spiritual connection to the object of contemplation. It suggests a more active and engaged form of observation than simply 'looking'.

Erreurs courantes

Using 'contemplare' when a simpler verb like 'guardare' or 'vedere' would suffice for a casual glance.
Confusing it with English 'to contemplate' without understanding the slightly more formal and often deeper implication in Italian.

Tips

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Origine du mot

From Latin 'contemplari', meaning 'to observe, gaze at, consider', from 'con-' (with) + 'templum' (a consecrated place, temple, area for observation).

Contexte culturel

The act of 'contemplating' has a rich history in Italian culture, often associated with art appreciation, philosophical thought, and spiritual reflection, especially given the country's strong artistic and religious heritage.

Astuce mémo

Imagine yourself in a 'temple' ('templum' is part of the etymology) quietly 'contemplating' something profound.

Questions fréquentes

3 questions

'Guardare' generally means 'to look' or 'to watch' in a more general sense, while 'contemplare' implies a deeper, more thoughtful, or prolonged observation, often with a sense of admiration or meditation.

Yes, 'contemplare' can be used for both animate and inanimate objects, especially when the observation is profound, aesthetic, or reflective.

While understood, 'contemplare' is more formal and often used in literary or philosophical contexts. In everyday conversation, 'pensare' (to think) or 'guardare' (to look) might be more common depending on the nuance.

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