a line of thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a line of thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a particular way of reasoning or a specific thought process regarding a topic. Example: "Her argument was based on a line of thinking that emphasized the importance of sustainability in business practices."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

39 human-written examples

This infographic from Funders & Founders lays out a "line of thinking" map that can help remind you what to always remember, what to learn to think, what to never think, and what you should just unlearn from school.

Huffington Post

It is a line of thinking that clamors for easy fixes.

The New Yorker

A "soft approach," he said, would flood the island state with narcotics — a line of thinking that appears to be similar to Trump's.

The Washington Post

Still, it brought to mind a line of thinking that's been advanced by a number of observers, most memorably by Alan Richman in his scorching review of M. Wells.

The New York Times

Whether this global connectivity results in the kind of unified planet theory of human progress envisioned in a line of thinking from Darwin through Havel remains to be seen.

The New York Times

Instead, you are completely focused on the activity mastering or explaining a line of thinking in your work, creating tiers of beautiful icing for a cake, or visualizing your way out of a sticky chess situation.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

21 human-written examples

This isn't a surprising line of thinking from a conservative pope who, as a theologian, once kept watch over the church's doctrine.

The New York Times

The belief that cancer happens for a reason can be an attractive line of thinking — where there's an effect, there must be a cause.

The New York Times

A well-organized essay or article leads the reader through a clear line of thinking.

WikiHow

To think about that prejudice for themselves and maybe come round to a different line of thinking".

The Guardian - Tech

This is a reasonable line of thinking.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a line of thinking" to clearly articulate a specific approach or method of reasoning in your writing. It adds clarity when discussing abstract concepts or differing perspectives.

Common error

Avoid using "a line of thinking" interchangeably with phrases like "a train of thought" if you intend to emphasize a specific method of reasoning rather than the continuous flow of ideas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a line of thinking" functions primarily as a noun phrase that identifies a particular mode of reasoning or a specific perspective on a subject. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's used to describe a distinct thought process, often within academic, scientific, and news contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Science

25%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a line of thinking" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to describe a specific approach, method of reasoning, or perspective. As Ludwig AI highlights, it appears frequently in news, scientific, and academic contexts, serving to introduce or analyze arguments and rationales. While phrases like "a train of thought" or "a perspective" can be alternatives, "a line of thinking" is particularly effective when emphasizing a delineated thought process. Remember to use it judiciously, avoiding confusion with broader terms like "a way of thinking", and consider the context to ensure the most appropriate and impactful use.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A train of thought

Emphasizes the sequential and connected nature of thoughts.

A course of reasoning

Highlights the logical progression of ideas.

A mode of thought

Focuses on a specific style or manner of thinking.

A perspective

Indicates a viewpoint or angle of considering something.

A school of thought

Refers to a particular approach or ideology shared by a group.

A method of reasoning

Highlights the structured approach to thinking.

A conceptual framework

Refers to an organized structure of ideas.

An intellectual approach

Emphasizes the cognitive or rational method.

A frame of reference

Highlights the background or context shaping thought.

A cognitive process

Focuses on the mental operations involved in thinking.

FAQs

How can I incorporate "a line of thinking" effectively in a sentence?

You can use "a line of thinking" to introduce or describe a particular approach, argument, or perspective, for instance: "This proposal follows "a line of thinking" that prioritizes long-term sustainability."

What are some alternatives to using "a line of thinking" in my writing?

Depending on the context, you might consider using alternatives like "a train of thought", "a perspective", or "a course of reasoning".

Is there a difference between "a line of thinking" and "a way of thinking"?

While similar, "a line of thinking" often refers to a specific, delineated thought process or argument, whereas "a way of thinking" is generally a broader, more encompassing approach or mindset.

In what contexts is "a line of thinking" most appropriately used?

"A line of thinking" is suitable in academic, professional, or analytical contexts where you need to clearly define and discuss a specific reasoning process or approach.