careful thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

"careful thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to any kind of thought process that involves being careful and cautious. For example, "The team engaged in careful thinking in order to make the best business decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Not only should children be prevented from using exclamation marks most of the time, they should also be bribed or forcibly encouraged to use more colons and semicolons, the proper use of which both reflects and encourages careful thinking.

The Guardian - Opinion

Thus, the step of our teaching and learning is to introduce the principles (as described and discussed above) that provide normative guidance (and which of course have been developed through the lengthy application of careful thinking related to the nature and purpose of health care, among other areas of human endeavour).

BMC Medical Ethics

"From careful thinking we get something precious.

The New York Times

Other studies have shown such accountability encourages careful thinking and reduces self-serving cognitive biases.

The Economist

"Answers to questions like that require careful thinking and a lot of data analysis," he replied.

The New York Times

"Often he would discover new effects by careful thinking at a very deep level".

The New York Times - Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

12 human-written examples

"I think we have to be very careful about thinking the solution to a problem is to add on another institution," he told the gathering of international MPs.

The Guardian - Business

"People have been able to make very rapid changes," Koomey said, "and I think we have to be very careful in thinking about, or in taking literally, people's assessments of feasibility".

Huffington Post

"People should be very, very careful in thinking about obesity and health," said Dr. Rudolph Leibel, the director of the division of molecular genetics at Columbia University's College of Physicians and Surgeons.

The New York Times - Health

"You have to be careful about thinking what's important to me and my mates is relevant to the universe at large," says Fiona Sturges, The Independent's radio columnist and a huge podcast consumer.

Independent

In theory, I might argue we should get out, negotiate a better deal, use a combination of sanctions and pressure to reweight our lever, but Iraq tells you that you have to be extremely careful about thinking through consequences ahead of time...

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "careful thinking", ensure that the context clearly indicates the area or problem to which the thinking is being applied. For example, "careful thinking about financial investments".

Common error

Avoid using "careful thinking" as a generic term when a more specific skill, such as analysis, evaluation, or problem-solving, is more appropriate. This adds precision and clarity to your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "careful thinking" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "careful" modifies the noun "thinking". It signifies the application of caution and thoroughness in the process of thought. Ludwig AI confirms its acceptability and frequent use across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

35%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "careful thinking" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase that emphasizes thoughtfulness and caution in the thought process. As demonstrated by Ludwig's examples, it appears frequently in News & Media and Science contexts, and less often in Wiki and Formal & Business settings. When writing, it's important to use "careful thinking" to indicate a specific area of focus, and avoid using it as a generic substitute for more precise terms like "analysis" or "evaluation". Related phrases such as "thoughtful consideration" and "deliberate reasoning" can also provide nuance in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thoughtful consideration

Emphasizes the depth and intent behind the thinking process, highlighting a more reflective approach.

deliberate reasoning

Focuses on the conscious and intentional nature of the thought process, suggesting a methodical approach.

prudent contemplation

Highlights the wisdom and caution involved in the thinking process, emphasizing foresight.

meticulous analysis

Stresses the thoroughness and precision of the thought process, focusing on detailed examination.

circumspect judgment

Emphasizes the cautious and wary nature of the decision-making process, highlighting risk awareness.

attentive reflection

Focuses on the careful and observant nature of the thinking process, highlighting detailed understanding.

thorough evaluation

Highlights the comprehensive and exhaustive nature of the thought process, emphasizing complete assessment.

considered opinion

Emphasizes that the opinion is a result of taking time to think and reflect on the topic.

strategic planning

Focuses on how "careful thinking" can be applied to strategy development

critical reasoning

Centers around the ability to think analytically and assess the validity of information and ideas.

FAQs

How can I use "careful thinking" in a sentence?

You can use "careful thinking" to describe a deliberate and thoughtful approach to a problem, such as, "The project required "careful thinking" to ensure its success."

What are some synonyms for "careful thinking"?

Alternatives to "careful thinking" include "thoughtful consideration", "deliberate reasoning", and "prudent contemplation", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "careful thinking" the same as "critical thinking"?

While both involve thoughtfulness, "careful thinking" generally emphasizes thoroughness and attention to detail, whereas "critical thinking" involves analyzing and evaluating information to form a judgment.

When is it appropriate to use "careful thinking" in writing?

"Careful thinking" is appropriate in situations where a methodical, detailed, and thoughtful approach is necessary, such as in problem-solving, decision-making, and planning. It is especially relevant when consequences are significant.