deep in thought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "deep in thought" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is typically used to describe someone who is concentrating or focusing intently on something. For example, "He sat in his chair, deep in thought, as he tried to come up with a solution to his problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

He hurried on, deep in thought.

The New Yorker

They appeared deep in thought.

The Guardian - Sport

He seemed deep in thought.

The New Yorker

Elena left her office deep in thought.

Harvard Business Review

Sullivan said: "We're all shell-shocked and deep in thought.

Independent

He looked at the ground, deep in thought.

The Guardian - Books

He stares out, as if deep in thought.

The Guardian

He pauses for a moment as if deep in thought.

The Guardian

Behind him, Alison stood, also deep in thought.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

2 human-written examples

It also serves as an excellent addition to one's deep-in-thought face.

The Guardian - Opinion

By now Mary had stopped crying and looked deep in thought.

HuffPost

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Avoid overuse; while common, varying your descriptions of thoughtfulness can keep your writing fresh. Consider alternatives like "absorbed in contemplation" or "lost in reverie" when appropriate.

Common error

Don't use "deep in thought" for simple, everyday considerations. It implies a level of intensity, concentration, or problem-solving, not just casual thinking.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "deep in thought" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe someone's mental state. Ludwig AI indicates it's suitable for describing intense concentration or focus. The phrase often follows a linking verb like "was", "seemed", or "appeared".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Science

25%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "deep in thought" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe someone who is intensely focused on thinking. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is suitable for use in various writing contexts. It functions as an adjectival phrase, typically following a linking verb, to indicate a state of serious contemplation or problem-solving. While "deep in thought" enjoys widespread use in news, media, and general writing, remember that alternatives like "absorbed in contemplation" or "engrossed in reflection" can add variety to your descriptions and avoid overuse. Be mindful to reserve this phrase for situations that genuinely involve significant mental effort, ensuring that your descriptions remain vivid and accurate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

absorbed in contemplation

Focuses on the state of being fully engaged in thoughtful observation and reflection.

engrossed in reflection

Highlights the immersive nature of the reflective process.

lost in reverie

Suggests a pleasant, dreamlike state of deep thinking.

preoccupied with ideas

Emphasizes the dominance of thoughts and mental activity.

intently pondering

Highlights the deliberate and focused nature of thinking.

meditating profoundly

Conveys a sense of deep, spiritual, or philosophical thought.

in serious contemplation

Emphasizes the gravity and importance of the thought process.

musing thoughtfully

Suggests a quiet, reflective consideration of a subject.

pondering intensely

Stresses the high degree of focus and effort in thinking.

contemplating deeply

Highlights the profound nature and extent of the reflection.

FAQs

How can I use "deep in thought" in a sentence?

You can use "deep in thought" to describe someone who is pondering something seriously, such as "She sat by the window, "deep in thought", trying to solve the problem".

What can I say instead of "deep in thought"?

You can use alternatives like "absorbed in contemplation", "engrossed in reflection", or "lost in reverie" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "deeply in thought" instead of "deep in thought"?

While "deeply" can modify "thought" in other contexts, the more common and idiomatic expression is ""deep in thought"". "Deeply in thought" might sound awkward to native English speakers.

What's the difference between "deep in thought" and "in deep thought"?

Both phrases are understandable, but ""deep in thought"" is the more frequently used and natural-sounding expression.