I mulled over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I mulled over" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to express the act of thinking carefully and deeply about something before making a decision. Example: "After I mulled over the options presented to me, I finally made my choice."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

Walking across downtown Dallas I mulled over with my two companions - both American, one a native Texan - the strange sense I had that the museum had done its job.

BBC

I mulled over the mummy's offer, which had its points.

The New York Times - Style

I mulled over the difference between a "condition" and "something for which you have sought treatment".

The New York Times

I swear, I mulled over the idea of calling the Hemlock Society for a consultation.

The New York Times

Speeding to the hospital on a lonely stretch of freeway, I mulled over the options.

The New York Times - Health

I mulled over my ex dilemma for a few days before I saw the TV presenter again.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

42 human-written examples

"I have a few things I'm mulling over, but I'm not in a rush".

The New York Times

While I mull over that, I'll keep taking notes.

Huffington Post

Back at Sephora I mull over my limitless choices of balms, serums, lotions and creams but, in the end, leave empty handed.

Huffington Post

I left mulling over what I had learnt, and determined to find out a bit more about the church.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

On three different occasions, at three different stores, I was told that the item I was mulling over was final sale, which to my ears, sounded a lot like "souvenir".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I mulled over" when you want to convey a sense of thoughtful consideration before making a decision or forming an opinion. It's suitable for expressing a deliberate and reflective thought process.

Common error

While "I mulled over" is generally acceptable, avoid overusing it in very informal conversations. Simpler alternatives like "I thought about" may sound more natural in casual settings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I mulled over" functions as a main clause expressing the action of thinking deeply and carefully about something. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and frequently used. Examples show its application in various narrative and reflective contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I mulled over" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase to describe a process of careful and deliberate thought. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples demonstrating its use primarily in news and media contexts. While versatile, it's best suited for situations where you want to express thoughtful consideration. For more casual settings, simpler alternatives like "I thought about" might be preferable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I pondered

Focuses on a deep and sustained consideration, often of a weighty matter.

I contemplated

Implies a thoughtful observation and reflection, suitable for more formal contexts.

I considered

Suggests a more general evaluation of something, without necessarily implying deep thought.

I reflected on

Emphasizes a backward-looking consideration of past events or ideas.

I thought about

A more casual and straightforward way of saying one considered something.

I gave thought to

Highlights the act of dedicating mental energy to a topic.

I deliberated on

Implies a careful and often prolonged discussion or thought process.

I weighed up

Suggests a balancing of different factors or options before making a decision.

I meditated on

Implies a deep, often spiritual, consideration of a subject.

I chewed over

An informal expression suggesting prolonged thought, similar to 'mulling'.

FAQs

What does "I mulled over" mean?

The phrase "I mulled over" means that you thought deeply and carefully about something for a period of time. It suggests a reflective consideration of a topic, often before making a decision.

How can I use "I mulled over" in a sentence?

You can use "I mulled over" to describe a process of careful thought, for example: "After the meeting, "I mulled over" the proposed changes to the project plan."

What can I say instead of "I mulled over"?

You can use alternatives like "I considered", "I contemplated", or "I reflected on depending on the context".

Is "I mulled over" formal or informal?

"I mulled over" falls somewhere in the middle. It's more thoughtful than "I thought about" but less formal than something like "I deliberated". It's suitable for many contexts, especially in writing or more considered speech.