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wonder
This word captures a state of suspended certainty. It is the mental space between knowing and not knowing, characterized by a soft, inquisitive tension. When used as a verb, it often signals a polite or indirect way of asking a question, softening the request to make it sound less demanding.
As a noun, it evokes a sense of awe that borders on the spiritual or the impossible. It differs from surprise, which is a sudden shock, by being a lingering, appreciative state of mind. It is frequently used in contexts of childhood, nature, and discovery to describe a feeling of being small in the face of something magnificent.
Countable when referring to a specific marvel or monument, like the Pyramids. Uncountable when referring to the emotional state of awe.
Meanings
Examples
It is a wonder.
Phrasal Verbs
wonder about
to think about something with curiosity or doubt
I often wonder about what my life would be like if I had moved to France.
wonder at
to feel surprise or admiration for something
The tourists could only wonder at the sheer scale of the ancient ruins.