What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
mulling
Example
I'm still mulling over whether to accept the job offer. [mulling: present participle]
Example
After mulling it over for a while, she decided to take a break from work. [mulling: gerund]
ponder
Example
He sat alone, pondering the meaning of life. [pondering: present participle]
Example
She spent hours pondering the implications of the new policy. [pondering: gerund]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Mulling is more commonly used than ponder in everyday language, especially in informal contexts. Ponder is less common but can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between mulling and ponder?
Ponder is generally considered more formal and literary than mulling. While mulling can be used in both formal and informal contexts, ponder is more commonly used in formal writing or speech.
