What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
reflecting
Example
After the meeting, I spent some time reflecting on what was discussed. [reflecting: gerund or present participle]
Example
She reflected on her life choices and realized she needed to make a change. [reflected: past tense]
pondering
Example
He spent hours pondering the meaning of life. [pondering: gerund or present participle]
Example
She pondered whether to accept the job offer or not. [pondered: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Reflecting is more commonly used in academic or formal contexts, while pondering is more commonly used in everyday language.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between reflecting and pondering?
Reflecting is generally considered more formal than pondering, which has a more casual connotation.
