These words mean "to think about," "to look at with attention." Both words apply to stages of consideration in which a decision to act or not to act is thought about. Meditate involves deeper thought and a more serious purpose than does contemplate. For instance, one might contemplate taking a weekend trip but is more likely to meditate the advantages and disadvantages of changing jobs. Contemplate is related in meaning to plan, devise, and contrive, whereas meditate is close to ponder, muse, cogitate, ruminate, and study.
Dictionary of problem words and expressions. Harry Shaw. 1975.