I was thinking about that

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was thinking about that" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when reflecting on a previous topic or idea that has been discussed or considered. Example: "I was thinking about that suggestion you made during the meeting, and I believe it could really improve our project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I was thinking about that era.

The Guardian

I was thinking about that era as I read the amicus brief submitted to the Supreme Court in support of marriage equality by three hundred and seventy-nine major businesses and business organizations, in connection with four landmark cases that will be argued before the Court on Tuesday.

The New Yorker

I'd kill him.' That's in 'Frozen.' I was thinking about that.

The New Yorker

I was also thinking about my family - my mum and dad who were there at that time in London and worked as the air-raid wardens in the Blitz and I was thinking about that.

Independent

Lori F.: It was such a contrast to Allison Williams' sex scene too Emma: I was thinking about that.

Huffington Post

She recalls trawling junk sales in Queens, "just looking at all of the junk that an individual or a couple had accrued in their life, that meant nothing, that their children didn't want … It really affected me and I think I was thinking about that a lot when I started to write the novel.

The Guardian - Books

"I was thinking about that today, how I probably think I'm better-looking than the public thinks I am," he says with a laugh, like it's funny that he's willed himself into a higher tier of male beauty through limitless confidence.

Huffington Post

"Jack, before we start," I said, "You think now might be a good time to retire?" He said, "How'd you know I was thinking about that?" and he smiled.

Los Angeles Times

"I was thinking about that last night.

The New York Times

no, I was thinking about that, too.

The New Yorker

"I was thinking about that this week.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To add emphasis, follow the phrase with a specific detail or realization that stemmed from your thought process.

Common error

While common in speech, avoid using "I was thinking about that" excessively in formal writing. Opt for more concise alternatives like "I considered" or "I reflected on" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

"I was thinking about that" serves as a discourse marker, indicating reflection on a previously mentioned topic. According to Ludwig, this phrase is widely used and grammatically sound. It connects current thoughts to prior discussions or ideas, showing engagement and consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "I was thinking about that" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to indicate reflection on a previous topic. According to Ludwig, its versatility makes it suitable for diverse conversational settings, mainly observed in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's best used in informal or conversational contexts, with more formal alternatives available for professional writing. Remember, you can smoothly transition between ideas by utilizing this phrase in an appropriate manner.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I've been pondering that

Emphasizes a more prolonged period of thought.

I had that thought

A simpler and more direct way of expressing the same idea.

That's been on my mind

Highlights the persistent nature of the thought.

I reflected on that

Indicates a deeper, more introspective consideration.

That was in my thoughts

Similar to "That's been on my mind" but slightly more formal.

I've had that in consideration

Suggests a more formal or deliberate contemplation.

I gave that some thought

Focuses on the action of thinking rather than the ongoing state.

That was something I was considering

Emphasizes the process of evaluation and decision-making.

It crossed my mind

Indicates a brief or fleeting thought.

That occurred to me

Implies a sudden realization or idea.

FAQs

What does "I was thinking about that" mean?

The phrase "I was thinking about that" means you were contemplating or considering something previously mentioned or relevant. It acknowledges a prior topic or idea.

How can I use "I was thinking about that" in a sentence?

You can use "I was thinking about that" to introduce a related thought. For example, "You mentioned the budget cuts, and "I was thinking about that" might affect our team's projects."

Which is a more formal alternative to "I was thinking about that"?

More formal alternatives include "I considered that", "I reflected on that", or "That was under consideration". These options are suitable for professional or academic contexts.

Is it okay to start a paragraph with "I was thinking about that" in an essay?

While grammatically correct, starting a paragraph with "I was thinking about that" might sound informal. Consider rephrasing for a smoother transition, such as "Upon reflection" or "In considering that point".