beginning to wonder

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "beginning to wonder" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when expressing a growing curiosity or doubt about something over time. Example: "I am beginning to wonder if I made the right decision by moving to a new city."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm beginning to wonder.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I am beginning to wonder.

The New Yorker

Now I'm beginning to wonder.

The New Yorker

Some of us were beginning to wonder.

The New York Times

I'm beginning to wonder that myself.

The Guardian

Perhaps Smith is beginning to wonder.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

People are beginning to wonder what he really stands for.

The Economist

But with the court decision, he is beginning to wonder.

The New York Times

He was beginning to wonder if maybe they were right.

Independent

Am beginning to wonder if this relationship is going anywhere.

The Guardian - Books

I'm beginning to wonder if we know how to stop.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "beginning to wonder" to express a gradual shift in your thinking or opinion about something. It works well when you want to convey that your doubt or curiosity has been building up over time.

Common error

While "beginning to wonder" is acceptable in many situations, it can sound too informal or hesitant for academic papers or formal reports. In such cases, consider stronger alternatives like "questioning", "investigating", or "reevaluating".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "beginning to wonder" functions as a hedging device, softening a statement of doubt or curiosity. According to Ludwig AI, it expresses a gradual shift in opinion or thought, indicating a transition in one's perspective, as seen in many examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "beginning to wonder" is a grammatically correct and widely used expression that signals a gradual onset of doubt or curiosity. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and appropriateness across diverse contexts, predominantly appearing in news and media. While versatile, it's essential to consider formality levels; alternatives like "questioning" might be preferable in academic settings. The phrase serves as a hedging device, softening statements of uncertainty and inviting further consideration.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

becoming doubtful

This alternative focuses on the increasing feeling of uncertainty.

starting to question

This alternative emphasizes the initiation of doubt or disbelief.

I'm starting to think

This alternative focuses on the initial process of forming an opinion or belief.

starting to suspect

This alternative indicates the initial formation of a belief based on incomplete evidence.

growing suspicious

This alternative implies a developing distrust or skepticism.

I'm starting to get the feeling

This alternative suggests a gradual formation of a belief based on intuition.

I'm getting the impression

This alternative indicates a gradual formation of a belief based on observations.

it's crossing my mind

This alternative introduces a thought that is just starting to be considered.

I'm entertaining the idea

This alternative suggests a willingness to consider a particular possibility.

it dawns on me

This alternative suggests a sudden realization or understanding.

FAQs

What does "beginning to wonder" mean?

The phrase "beginning to wonder" expresses a gradual development of doubt, curiosity, or uncertainty about something. It indicates that someone's thoughts or opinions are starting to shift.

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

You can use "beginning to wonder" to express a gradual shift in your thinking. For example, "After seeing the inconsistencies, I'm "beginning to wonder" if the data is accurate."

What can I say instead of "beginning to wonder"?

You can use alternatives like "starting to question", "becoming doubtful", or "starting to suspect" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "beginning to wonder" or "starting to wonder"?

Both "beginning to wonder" and "starting to wonder" are grammatically correct and widely used. The choice between them often depends on personal preference, although "beginning to wonder" might suggest a slightly more gradual process.