by thinking about

USAGE SUMMARY

"by thinking about" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to describe an action that is performed through contemplation. For example: "By thinking about the possibilities, I was finally able to come up with an innovative solution."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What do architects have to gain by thinking about matter as much as form?

Harvard University

Whenever I think of messages to communicate I always start by thinking about the audience.

TechCrunch

By thinking about "presenting that fly to the fish, you won't have to think about school.

Duke University

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

Let's start by thinking about a two dimensional problem.

University of California, Berkeley

Start by thinking about what's realistic for you.

Harvard Business Review

And he did it just by thinking about it.

The Guardian

In part, you can do this by thinking about your organization and watching your boss.

The New York Times

He still solves crimes mostly by thinking about them, generally with a drink in his hand.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "by thinking about" to introduce a specific thought process that leads to a decision, action, or understanding. For example, "They solved the problem by thinking about alternative solutions."

Common error

Avoid using "by thinking about" when a simpler verb like 'considering' or 'reflecting' would suffice. Overuse can make your writing sound verbose. For example, instead of saying, "He made the decision by thinking about it", consider "He considered it before making the decision".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by thinking about" functions as a prepositional phrase acting as an adverbial modifier. It describes the manner in which an action is performed, indicating that a particular outcome is achieved through the process of contemplation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable status.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

38%

Academia

27%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Science

12%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "by thinking about" is a grammatically sound and frequently employed phrase that clarifies how contemplation influences outcomes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's appropriate for describing a process of thoughtful consideration leading to a specific result. Predominantly found in news, academic, and general contexts, it carries a neutral tone adaptable to various registers. When using "by thinking about", ensure it directly explains the process leading to an action or understanding and consider simpler alternatives to avoid wordiness. This guide provides a comprehensive overview to confidently integrate "by thinking about" into your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

when considering

Focuses on the act of weighing different factors or aspects.

upon reflection

Highlights a more thoughtful or retrospective contemplation.

in contemplating

Emphasizes a deeper, more prolonged form of thinking.

when pondering

Suggests a slow, deliberate process of thought.

considering the implications of

Highlights thinking about potential consequences.

reflecting on

Focuses on looking back and thinking about past experiences.

after contemplating

Emphasizes the completion of a thorough thought process.

in light of

Highlights that consideration is given to new information

bearing in mind

Implies not forgetting or ignoring something.

taking into account

Focuses on incorporating particular elements into one's thinking.

FAQs

How can I use "by thinking about" in a sentence?

Use "by thinking about" to describe a process of contemplation or consideration leading to a particular outcome. For example, "She improved her design "by thinking about" the user's needs."

What are some alternatives to "by thinking about"?

Alternatives include "when considering", "upon reflection", or "in contemplating", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to start a sentence with "by thinking about"?

Yes, it is grammatically correct to start a sentence with "by thinking about" when used as an introductory phrase. For example, "By thinking about the problem from a new angle, they found a solution."

How does "by thinking about" differ from "through thinking about"?

"By thinking about" emphasizes the process of thinking as the direct means to an end, while "through thinking about" suggests that thinking is a medium or channel. The difference is subtle but "by" is often more direct. Example: "They solved it "by thinking about" it."