ponder
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈpɒndə/
KK: /ˈpɑndɚ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To think deeply and carefully about something.
Example
She sat quietly to ponder her next move in the game.
Tense Forms
Past: pondered
Past Participle: pondered
Conversation
I've been taking some time to ponder my future lately.
That sounds like a good idea. What have you been thinking about?
Mostly about my career choices and where I want to be in five years.
It's definitely important to ponder those things carefully.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
muse
contemplate
reflect
Antonyms
dismiss
ignore
neglect
transitive verb
Definition
To think about something carefully and for a long time.
Example
She sat quietly to ponder her next move in the game.
Tense Forms
Past: pondered
Past Participle: pondered
Conversation
I've been trying to ponder my next career move lately.
That sounds like a big decision, what are you considering?
I just want to make sure I really think it through before I choose.
Root Explanation
Ponder → It is derived from the Latin 'ponderare' (meaning to weigh), which comes from 'pondus' (meaning weight). The word 'ponder' means to weigh something mentally or consider it carefully.
Memory Tip
Think of weighing thoughts in your mind — 'ponder' means to carefully consider or weigh your options.
Visually Confused Words
pounder
poinder
reponder
pomander
polander
yonder
wonder
powder