contempla

Contempla is the third-person singular present indicative form of the verb contemplar in Spanish and Portuguese. In Spanish, it corresponds to “él/ella contempla” and to the formal “usted contempla.” In Portuguese, it corresponds to “ele/ela contempla” and, in formal use, to “o senhor contempla” or “a senhora contempla.” The sense in both languages includes looking at something with attention as well as reflecting on it.

Etymology is grounded in Latin contemplare, the root of the verbs in many Romance languages. The modern forms retain the core meaning of observing with attention and considering something carefully.

In Spanish, contempla is used for literal viewing and for figurative contemplation. Examples include “Ella contempla el paisaje desde la ventana” and “¿Qué contemplas al leer este texto?” In religious or philosophical contexts, it can convey beholding or reflecting on a higher reality, such as “contemplar la verdad” or “contemplar a Dios.”

In Portuguese, contempla serves a similar function. Examples include “Ela contempla o pôr do sol” and “Você contempla as implicações da decisão.” The usage covers both direct observation and deep consideration, spanning everyday and abstract or moral reflections.

See also: contemplar, contemplação, contemplativo.