I'm thinking about

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I'm thinking about" is correct and usable in written English
You can use it when you are considering a particular topic or idea. For example: "I'm thinking about what I should do for my mom's birthday this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

"That's all I'm thinking about right now.

Los Angeles Times

I'm thinking about old boyfriends.

The New Yorker

But I'm thinking about it".

The New York Times - Sports

"That's all I'm thinking about".

The New York Times - Magazine

I'm thinking about Damon especially.

The New York Times

"So I'm thinking about it".

The New Yorker

"I'm thinking about the court".

The New York Times

"I'm thinking about it".

The New York Times

"I'm thinking about you".

The New Yorker

No, I'm thinking about . . .

The New Yorker

I'm thinking about that".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I'm thinking about" to introduce a topic you are currently considering or evaluating. It's suitable for expressing present contemplation or future plans.

Common error

While "I'm thinking about" is generally acceptable, overuse in formal writing can sound less professional. Consider using alternatives like "I am considering" or "I am evaluating" for a more polished tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I'm thinking about" functions as a declarative statement expressing a state of consideration or contemplation. Ludwig AI indicates it is correct and commonly used. It sets the stage for the topic or subject under consideration, as demonstrated in the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

86%

Science

12%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I'm thinking about" is a grammatically correct and very common expression used to indicate contemplation or consideration of a particular subject. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, highlighting its presence across numerous sources, primarily within news and media. While suitable for various contexts, it's advisable to consider more formal alternatives like "I am considering" in professional writing to maintain a polished tone. This analysis provides a comprehensive understanding of how to effectively use and interpret the phrase in different situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm considering

Replaces "thinking" with "considering", implying a more deliberate evaluation.

I'm pondering

Uses "pondering" for a more thoughtful and reflective consideration.

I'm contemplating

Employs "contemplating", suggesting a more formal and serious consideration.

I'm giving thought to

Rephrases the idea as "giving thought to", which sounds slightly more formal.

I'm reflecting on

Suggests a deeper level of thought and introspection using "reflecting on".

I'm mulling over

Uses "mulling over" to indicate a more casual and informal consideration.

I'm weighing up

Replaces the phrase to focus on balancing options.

I'm toying with the idea of

Indicates the early stage of idea development.

I have been giving some thought to

Expresses consideration with some time invested already.

I've been turning over in my mind

Indicates thoroughness of consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "I'm thinking about" in a sentence?

You can use "I'm thinking about" to introduce a topic you are currently considering, like in the sentence, "I'm thinking about taking a vacation next month".

What are some alternatives to "I'm thinking about"?

Some alternatives include "I'm considering", "I'm pondering", or "I'm contemplating", depending on the level of formality you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I'm thinking of" instead of "I'm thinking about"?

Both "I'm thinking of" and "I'm thinking about" are grammatically correct and often interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference and the specific nuance you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "I'm thinking about" and "I'm planning"?

"I'm thinking about" indicates consideration or contemplation, while "I'm planning" implies a more concrete step towards action. For example, "I'm thinking about moving" suggests consideration, while "I'm planning to move" indicates a commitment to the action.