I shall think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I shall think" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a future intention or decision to contemplate or consider something. Example: "After reviewing the proposal, I shall think about the best course of action before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

I shall think about it.

The Guardian

I shall think of that more than anything next week".

The Guardian - Sport

On the evening in question, I shall think about two poems.

The New York Times

When any single digital station produces as much variety and excellence as a single day in the life of Radio 3 or 4 I shall think again.

The Guardian

"If, in some afterlife, conversation is permitted, I shall think it is my duty to seek out Michael Powell and apologise".

The Guardian - Film

As I'll watch the film on TV here, I shall think of the old grandmother at the front of the crowd and her enraptured attention watching members of her own family out hunting.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

It was small and well-read and it minded its Ps & Qs, and I think I shall remember it for some time.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We shall think of something," says her lover.

The Economist

I shall always think of Don with great fondness and treasure the times I had with him, both on and off the bandstand".

Independent

His memory will probably have me looking over my shoulder in the streets of my own city, London, for the rest of my life, and although the thought would probably make him furious, I shall always think of him as part of my history and as part of my identity as a Briton.

The Guardian

I shall not think peace complete if we do not get rid of Gibraltar".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context: While grammatically sound, "I shall think" can sound overly formal in casual conversation. In such situations, simpler alternatives like "I will think" or "I'll think about it" may be more appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "I shall think" in informal settings, as it can sound stilted or unnatural. In modern English, "will" is generally preferred over "shall" for expressing future intentions, especially in everyday conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I shall think" functions as a statement of future intent. It indicates that the speaker intends to engage in a process of consideration or contemplation. As Ludwig points out, the phrase is grammatically sound and showcases a formal tone.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I shall think" is grammatically valid but carries a formal tone, as confirmed by Ludwig. It expresses a future intention to consider something, assuring the listener of thoughtful deliberation. While "I shall think" appears primarily in News & Media sources, its use should be reserved for formal contexts, as it can sound stilted in casual conversation. Simpler alternatives like "I will think" or "I will consider" are generally preferred in modern English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I will consider

A more common and straightforward alternative using 'will' instead of 'shall'.

I shall give it some thought

Adds an object to 'think,' specifying what will be considered.

I will contemplate

Replaces the auxiliary verb and uses a more formal verb for 'think'.

I plan to reflect

Emphasizes a reflective approach to thinking.

I intend to ponder

Uses a more deliberate verb 'ponder' indicating deep thought.

I am to deliberate

A formal and decisive option, suggesting careful and lengthy consideration.

I will ruminate about

Suggests a deep and extended period of thought, often about something unpleasant.

I am going to mull over

An informal expression indicating thorough consideration.

I will meditate on

Implies a more spiritual or introspective type of thinking.

I'm going to chew on that

A very informal, almost colloquial, way of saying you'll think about something.

FAQs

How can I use "I shall think" in a sentence?

You can use "I shall think" to express a future intention to consider something. For example, "After the meeting, I shall think about your proposal and get back to you."

What's the difference between "I shall think" and "I will think"?

Traditionally, "shall" was used with "I" and "we" to express simple future tense, while "will" was used with other subjects. However, in modern English, "will" is commonly used with all subjects. "I shall think" now sounds more formal or emphatic. If you want a more casual tone, use "I will think".

What are some alternatives to saying "I shall think"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "I will consider", "I will reflect", or "I will ponder".

Is it correct to use "I shall think" in modern English?

Yes, "I shall think" is grammatically correct, but it is perceived as formal or somewhat archaic. In most contemporary contexts, "I will think" is more common and acceptable.