What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
meditation
Example
I like to meditate for 10 minutes every morning to start my day with a clear mind. [meditate: verb]
Example
Meditation has been shown to have numerous health benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety. [meditation: noun]
rumination
Example
She couldn't stop ruminating on the argument she had with her friend. [ruminating: gerund or present participle]
Example
Rumination can lead to depression and anxiety if left unchecked. [rumination: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Meditation is more commonly used than rumination in everyday language. Meditation is a well-known practice that has gained popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits, while rumination is a less common term that is often used in psychology and mental health contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between meditation and rumination?
Meditation is generally considered a more formal term than rumination. While meditation is often associated with spiritual or religious practices, it can also be used in secular contexts. Rumination, on the other hand, is a more technical term that is primarily used in psychology and mental health contexts.