What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
ruminate
Example
I need some time to ruminate on this decision before I make up my mind. [ruminate: verb]
Example
She spent hours ruminating on the meaning of life. [ruminating: gerund or present participle]
ponder
Example
I need to ponder this question before I can give you an answer. [ponder: verb]
Example
He sat in silence, pondering the implications of his actions. [pondering: gerund or present participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ponder is more commonly used than ruminate in everyday language. Ponder is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while ruminate is less common and often used in more formal or literary contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between ruminate and ponder?
While ruminate is typically associated with a more formal or literary tone, ponder is more versatile and can be employed in both formal and informal contexts.
