beginning to think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beginning to think" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is often used to indicate that someone is starting to have a thought or idea about something. Example: "As she watched the news, Jane was beginning to think that maybe she should get more involved in politics."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm beginning to think not.

The Guardian - Film

Now I'm beginning to think it can't.

Independent

I'm beginning to think I've been had.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"People are beginning to think like owners".

The New York Times

I am beginning to think so.

The Guardian

I'm beginning to think we're incapable of learning.

The New York Times

And that's not even beginning to think about health insurance.

The New York Times

I'm beginning to think that we'll just go grey.

The New York Times

"I'm beginning to think I can do this," Curtis said.

The New Yorker

I was beginning to think my eardrum was punctured.

The New Yorker

I'm beginning to think I misjudged Ken Loach.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "beginning to think" with a qualifier (e.g., "I'm beginning to think that maybe...") to soften the statement and avoid sounding overly assertive.

Common error

Avoid using "beginning to think" when you're already certain about something; it implies a state of uncertainty or emerging belief, not a firm conviction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beginning to think" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the inception of a cognitive process. It is used to express the initial stages of forming an opinion, idea, or belief, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

89%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "beginning to think" is a common and grammatically correct verbal phrase used to express the initial development of an idea or opinion. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it signifies a gradual shift in perspective, often in response to new information. While suitable for various contexts, it's most frequently encountered in news and media. When using this phrase, it's best to avoid overstating certainty and consider qualifiers to soften the statement. Alternatives like "starting to believe" or "coming to the conclusion" can offer slightly different nuances. With its widespread use and clear meaning, "beginning to think" is a valuable addition to any writer's toolbox.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forming the opinion

Highlights the process of shaping a viewpoint.

starting to believe

Focuses on the commencement of belief rather than general thought.

coming to the conclusion

Implies a more definite arrival at a reasoned judgment.

getting the impression

Highlights a feeling or sense that is developing.

I'm starting to gather

Suggests collecting information to inform a nascent understanding.

inclined to consider

Suggests a leaning towards a particular viewpoint.

starting to suspect

Introduces an element of doubt or mistrust.

it occurs to me now

Highlights a thought appearing suddenly to someone.

it's dawning on me

Emphasizes a gradual realization or understanding.

entertaining the idea

Indicates a willingness to consider something new.

FAQs

How can I use "beginning to think" in a sentence?

You can use "beginning to think" to show a gradual change in your opinion. For example, "I'm beginning to think that this project might actually succeed."

What are some alternatives to "beginning to think"?

Alternatives include "starting to believe", "coming to the conclusion", or "getting the impression". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "I begin to think" instead of "I'm beginning to think"?

"I begin to think" is grammatically correct, but it is less common in contemporary English and may sound slightly formal or stilted. "I'm beginning to think" is generally preferred for everyday conversation.

What's the difference between "beginning to think" and "starting to think"?

While very similar, "beginning to think" often implies a slightly more gradual or hesitant process of forming an opinion than "starting to think". Both are acceptable in most contexts.