by thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

"by thinking" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to indicate that something is achieved or caused by using one's thoughts or mental processes. Here's an example: "By thinking critically, we can come up with creative solutions to complex problems."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

… The case studies helped me think critically, especially by thinking and responding to the questions…".

International Journal of STEM Education

Begin by thinking of a small spread.

The New York Times - Food

Let's start by thinking about money.

The Guardian

"We'll make progress by thinking about these little problems".

The New York Times - Science

They made it through the day by thinking about dinner.

The New York Times

"We don't begin by thinking what we can't do.

The New York Times - Arts

Start by thinking small, so it's not too overwhelming.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I surprise myself by thinking: Yes, it can.

The Guardian - Opinion

At least, she began by thinking she was lucky.

The New York Times

And he did it just by thinking about it.

The Guardian

And you only learn that by thinking you know".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "by thinking", ensure it's followed by a verb that clearly indicates the action or outcome resulting from the thought process. For example, "Solve problems by thinking creatively."

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by ensuring the phrase clearly modifies the intended verb. For example, instead of "The project was completed by thinking, diligently", write "The project was completed by thinking diligently about all the potential risks."

Linguistic Context

By thinking functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the means or method by which an action is performed or a result is achieved. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatically correct usage, demonstrating its role in expressing how something is accomplished through mental activity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

By thinking is a versatile prepositional phrase used to denote the means by which an action is performed or a result is achieved. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and frequently used in a variety of contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and general writing. While it maintains a generally neutral register, its formality can be adjusted based on the accompanying vocabulary. Related phrases offer alternative ways to express the concept of achieving something through mental processes, varying in formality and specific nuance. When using "by thinking", it's important to ensure that it clearly modifies the intended verb and that the phrase clearly indicates the action or outcome that results from the thought process.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

by applying thought

Emphasizes the active application of one's mind.

through contemplation

Emphasizes a more deliberate and reflective process of thinking.

by using reasoning

Focuses on the logical aspect of thinking.

via mental processing

Highlights the cognitive mechanisms involved.

with mindful consideration

Suggests a thoughtful and attentive approach.

by exercising judgment

Focuses on the application of discernment and evaluation.

through cognitive effort

Stresses the exertion of mental energy.

through intellectual activity

Highlights the use of intelligence and mental prowess.

by dint of reflection

Implies achievement through sustained thought.

by virtue of cerebration

A more formal and academic way to describe the process of thinking.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "by thinking" to sound more formal?

For a more formal tone, consider alternatives like "through contemplation", "via mental processing", or "by virtue of cerebration". The choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

What's a simple way to use "by thinking" in a sentence?

A simple example is: "You can improve your decision-making skills by thinking critically about all available options."

How does "by thinking" differ from "by considering"?

"By thinking" emphasizes the process of generating ideas and reasoning, while "by considering" suggests a more deliberate evaluation of existing information.

Can "by thinking" be replaced with a single word?

While not always a direct replacement, in some contexts, you could use words like "through", "via", or "using" depending on the sentence's structure and intended meaning.