Pensive Meaning in English
word
ˈpɛnsɪv
PEN-siv
pˈɛnsɪv
PEN-siv
Definition
Thinking deeply in a serious or sad way, often lost in thought or reflecting on something important.
Usage & Nuances
Formal and literary; describes moods that are thoughtful, often with a touch of sadness or seriousness, not just daydreaming. Common with 'look', 'expression', or 'moment'. Do not confuse with 'thoughtful' (kind/caring) or 'reflective' (focused on memories or ideas).
Spanish: pensativo - meditativoPortuguese (BR): pensativo - meditativoPortuguese (PT): pensativo - meditativoChinese (Simplified): 沉思的 - 若有所思的Chinese (Traditional): 沉思的 - 若有所思的Hindi: चिंतनशील - विचारमग्नArabic: متأمل - مفكرBengali: গম্ভীর - চিন্তামগ্নRussian: задумчивыйJapanese: 物思いにふけった - 沈思するVietnamese: trầm ngâmKorean: 수심에 잠긴 - 생각에 잠긴Turkish: dalgın - düşünceliUrdu: متفکر - افسردہ (اداس انداز میں سوچ بچار کرنے والا)Indonesian: merenung - termenung
Example Sentences
He looked pensive as he stared out the window.
basic
The child became pensive after hearing the story.
basic
She has a pensive expression in the photo.
basic
"You look pensive. What's on your mind?"
natural
There was a pensive silence in the room after the news.
natural
On long train rides, I often get into a pensive mood.
natural