German word

sinnen

Pronunciation

IPA/ˈzɪnən/

Meaning

  • verbponder

Example

Ich sinne über das Problem.

I am pondering the problem.

Illustration for sinnen (ponder)

More examples

Nach dem Vorfall sinnt er auf Wiedergutmachung.

After the incident, he is plotting to make amends.

Core concept

A thinker stays focused on one question, with the same inward effort leading either to careful reflection or to a planned action.

Common phrases

  • sinnen auf Rache

    plot revenge

  • sinnen über vergangene Fehler

    ponder past mistakes

  • sinnen auf bessere Zeiten

    dream of better times

Similar words

überlegen: Deliberate consideration of a matter to form a sound judgment.
nachdenken: Calm, sustained reflection on a particular matter.
grübeln: Persistent, anxious thought that dwells on the same problem.
planen: Setting the steps and procedures for a future action or event.

Definition in German

Lange und konzentriert in Gedanken etwas erwägen; kann auch bedeuten, mit Absicht etwas zu planen, besonders in festen Wendungen

Word origin

The verb comes through Old High German sinnan and is related to the German word Sinn, which helped support its meanings of thought and intention.

Usage tips

  • The construction sinnen über etwas focuses on reflection, while auf etwas sinnen often introduces a deliberate aim or scheme.

Other meanings

  • museverb
  • plotverb

Opposites

Related words

  • Besinnungreflectionnoun
  • besinnenreflectverb

Word lists with this word