I started to think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I started to think" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express the beginning of a thought process or reflection on a particular topic. Example: "After hearing the news, I started to think about how it would affect our plans moving forward."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I started to think," Harris said later.

The New Yorker

After that call, I started to think.

The New York Times

I started to think way too much.

The New York Times - Sports

I started to think about moving out.

The New Yorker

Then I started to think.

The New York Times

That's when I started to think about medicine.

Independent

"I started to think, You know what, this isn't mine.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I started to think 'what is modern?'" he said, quizzically.

Independent

Of course, I started to think about it.

The New Yorker

For some reason, I started to think about Anvil.

Independent

"I started to think, How do these actors do it?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I started to think" to clearly indicate the commencement of a thought process, ensuring the context provides clarity on the subject of your reflection.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "I started to think" as this can make your writing repetitive. Use synonyms or rephrase for variety.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I started to think" functions as an intransitive verb phrase indicating the commencement of a mental process. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s grammatically sound. It serves to introduce a reflection, consideration, or problem-solving activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

66%

Science

18%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I started to think" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to introduce a thought process or reflection. According to Ludwig AI, it's widely acceptable and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. While it's suitable for many situations, consider more formal alternatives like "I began to consider" in academic settings. Avoid overuse by varying your sentence structure with synonyms like "I got to thinking". By understanding its function and context, you can use "I started to think" effectively in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I started considering

Focuses on the evaluation aspect of thinking.

I got to thinking

Informal alternative suggesting a gradual onset of thought.

I started reflecting on

Emphasizes introspection and deep thought.

I began to ponder

Formal alternative emphasizing deep consideration.

I found myself thinking

Emphasizes the involuntary nature of the thought process.

I commenced to contemplate

Highly formal alternative indicating a deliberate start to thinking.

It occurred to me

Highlights the sudden appearance of a thought.

I turned my thoughts to

Highlights shift in mental focus.

I entertained the idea

Implies considering something new or unusual.

I conceived the notion

Indicates the formation of an idea or concept.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "I started to think" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "I began to ponder", or "I commenced to contemplate" depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is it okay to use "I started to think" in academic writing?

While acceptable, "I started to think" might be too informal for some academic contexts. Consider using phrases like "I began to consider", or "I reflected on" for a more appropriate tone.

What's a more casual way to say "I started to think"?

Informal alternatives include "I got to thinking", or "It occurred to me", which suggest a more relaxed or spontaneous thought process.

When is it best to use "I started to think" versus "I thought"?

"I started to think" emphasizes the beginning of a cognitive process, suggesting continued reflection. "I thought" simply states a past thought, without necessarily implying ongoing consideration.