C1noun1K

Meditation

UK /["/ˌmedɪˈteɪʃn/"]/US /["/ˌmedɪˈteɪʃn/"]/

Definition

the practice of focusing your mind in silence, especially for religious reasons or in order to make your mind calm

In simple words: A way to relax and think quietly.

Examples

  • Meditation is a practice that helps reduce stress and improve mental clarity.
  • She begins her day with meditation to center her thoughts and emotions.
  • The meditation retreat lasted for a full week, providing a silent environment for reflection.
  • Meditation techniques vary widely, including mindfulness, transcendental, and guided methods.
  • He used meditation as a part of his recovery program to help with anxiety.
  • In religious meditation, practitioners often focus on a mantra or spiritual text.
  • The meditation on the poem revealed deeper meanings about life and existence.
  • Philosophers have employed meditation to contemplate abstract ideas and ethical dilemmas.

Usage notes

Commonly used in contexts related to relaxation, mindfulness, and mental health. Suitable for casual conversations, but can also be used in more serious discussions about wellness.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'meditation' as 'meditate' with relaxation — imagine sitting peacefully with closed eyes.

Collocations

  • deep
  • profound
  • quiet
  • do
  • practise/​practice
  • in meditation
  • meditation on
  • deep
  • profound
  • quiet
  • do
  • practise/​practice
  • in meditation
  • meditation on

Synonyms

  • mindfulness
  • contemplation
  • reflection
  • stillness
  • introspection

Antonyms

  • chaos
  • distraction

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'meditate' as a noun instead of a verb.
  • Using 'meditation' to refer to a physical activity instead of a mental one.
  • Omitting 'meditation' when discussing mental practices.