I am thinking of

USAGE SUMMARY

"I am thinking of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you are in the process of considering something, such as a plan or idea. Example: I am thinking of going to London next month.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I am thinking of committing suicide".

The New Yorker

I am thinking of them.

The Guardian

I am thinking of it as Stand-Up School. Stand-Up School

Independent

But I am thinking of my beloved husband.

The New York Times

I am thinking of knocking on the door".

The New Yorker

I am thinking of something more than mere atmosphere.

The New York Times - Books

"I am thinking, of course, of Piers Morgan".

The Guardian

I am thinking of how to close my factory".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

For example I am thinking of Luciano Pavarotti.

The New York Times

Instead, I am thinking of the figure that he struck onscreen.

The New Yorker

(In fact I am thinking of withdrawing my accounts).

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I am thinking of" to introduce a plan, idea, or consideration, making sure the context clearly indicates what you are contemplating. For instance, "I am thinking of starting a new project" clearly presents your consideration.

Common error

Avoid using "I am thinking of" without completing the thought with a clear object or action. Saying only "I am thinking of..." leaves the listener or reader waiting for essential information. Be direct by following with what you are contemplating.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I am thinking of" functions as a statement of intent or contemplation. It introduces a plan, idea, or subject that the speaker is currently considering. Ludwig examples show a variety of contexts where this phrase is used to preface future actions or current reflections.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I am thinking of" is a versatile phrase used to introduce an idea, plan, or consideration. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage across various contexts. While adaptable, it is most frequently found in news and media, scientific writing and formal business communications, and it signals intent or contemplation. When using this phrase, ensure you provide sufficient context to clarify what you are contemplating. Alternatives like "I'm considering" or "I'm contemplating" can be used for similar effect, depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I'm considering

Uses a contraction and simplifies the verb phrase to express present consideration.

I'm contemplating

Replaces "thinking" with a more formal synonym implying deeper consideration.

I'm giving thought to

Replaces "thinking" with "giving thought" and adds a preposition.

I'm pondering

Substitutes "thinking" with a synonym suggesting a thoughtful and reflective process.

I'm mulling over

Replaces with a phrasal verb indicating slow and careful consideration.

I'm reflecting on

Changes the verb to "reflecting" indicating a focus on past events or experiences.

I'm weighing up

Uses "weighing up" to emphasize the process of evaluating different options.

I'm toying with the idea of

Introduces "toying with the idea" to suggest a less serious or firm consideration.

I'm entertaining the possibility of

Uses a more formal structure to express consideration of a possibility.

I have been giving some thought to

Changes the tense to present perfect continuous, emphasizing the duration of the thought process.

FAQs

How can I use "I am thinking of" in a sentence?

Use "I am thinking of" to express consideration or a plan. For example, "I am thinking of taking a vacation" indicates you are considering a vacation.

What's a good alternative to "I am thinking of"?

Alternatives include "I'm considering", "I'm contemplating", or "I'm pondering", depending on the level of formality and depth of thought you wish to convey.

Is it correct to say "I am thinking to" instead of "I am thinking of"?

No, the correct preposition to use with "I am thinking" in this context is "of". "I am thinking to" is grammatically incorrect. You can say "I intend to", which has a similar meaning.

What is the difference between "I am thinking of" and "I am planning"?

"I am thinking of" implies consideration or a tentative plan, while "I am planning" suggests a more concrete and developed intention. For example, "I am thinking of buying a car" suggests you are considering it, while "I am planning to buy a car" means you have a specific intention.