contemplar
“contemplar” means “to gaze at” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
to gaze at, to look at
Also: to watch
📝 In Action
Nos gusta contemplar el atardecer desde la playa.
A2We like to gaze at the sunset from the beach.
Él se quedó contemplando el cuadro durante mucho tiempo.
B1He stayed there looking at the painting for a long time.
Contempla el paisaje y relájate.
A2Look at the landscape and relax.
to consider, to take into account
📝 In Action
Estamos contemplando la posibilidad de mudarnos.
B1We are considering the possibility of moving.
El plan no contempla los gastos de viaje.
B2The plan doesn't take travel expenses into account.
Debes contemplar todas las opciones antes de decidir.
B1You must consider all options before deciding.
🔄 Conjugations
subjunctive
imperfect
present
indicative
preterite
imperfect
present
Translate to Spanish
✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: contemplar
Question 1 of 3
Which sentence means 'We are considering buying a house'?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family▼
📚 Etymology▼
From Latin 'contemplari', which originally referred to priests or 'augurs' marking out a space in the sky to observe the flight of birds for omens.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'contemplar' more formal than 'mirar'?
Yes, it sounds more poetic or serious. Use 'mirar' for everyday actions like looking at your phone, and 'contemplar' for looking at nature or thinking deeply.
Can I use 'contemplar' for people?
Yes! If you say 'Contemplo a mi hijo dormir,' it means you are watching your child sleep with affection and attention.
Does it mean 'to plan'?
Not exactly. It means to 'include' or 'take into account.' For example, a budget 'contemplates' expenses, meaning it has room for them.