direction of thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "direction of thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a particular way of considering or analyzing an issue or concept. For example, "I found that shifting my direction of thinking allowed me to find creative solutions to the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

Encyclopedias

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

The realization in the late 1960s that protons, neutrons, and even Yukawa's pions are all built from quarks changed the direction of thinking about the nuclear binding force.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Although at this point the doctrine of the resurrection of the body was not put aside, the direction of thinking changed.

Encyclopedia Britannica

This complaint is based on the mistake (made by Scalia's fans from the other direction) of thinking that originalism is a method, a thesis that not only asserts a single meaning for the Constitution, but tells you exactly how to find it and thereby severely restricts what can be found.

The New York Times

Six different colored hats are used to represent a direction of thinking (Table 1).

Research and Practice in Technology Enhanced Learning

Push yourself in the direction of thinking about the things you like about yourself.

Forbes

I am not going to lie: I completely dislike this entire viewpoint and direction of thinking about technology.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Asymptotic approach to kinetic models of biological networks suggests new directions of thinking on a biological problem, making the mathematical model a useful tool accompanying biological reasoning and allowing to put in order diverse experimental observations.

BMC Systems Biology

While the Kuuk Thayorre speakers were clearly using their direction language in their way of thinking about space, this isn't reflected in the way they talk about time.

University of California, Berkeley

Thinking about punishment in its broadest sense gives us a way of thinking about that question from yet another direction.

Yale University

As the hearing ended, Justice Chan indicated the direction of her thinking.

The New York Times

Of course the most interesting way to read No Boundaries is as an indicator of the direction of Arts Council thinking.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing abstract concepts or strategies, use "direction of thinking" to clarify the specific approach being taken. For example: 'The new policy requires a shift in our "direction of thinking" regarding resource allocation.'

Common error

Avoid using "direction of thinking" when you actually mean a lack of thoughtful consideration. For example, instead of saying 'His argument showed a poor "direction of thinking",' clarify the specific flaws in his reasoning or lack of logic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "direction of thinking" functions as a noun phrase, often serving as the object of a preposition or a complement in a sentence. It describes a particular method, orientation, or approach in cognitive processes, as affirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

25%

Science

25%

Academia

25%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

17%

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "direction of thinking" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe a specific approach, method, or orientation in cognitive processes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's versatile enough for various contexts, though more prevalent in academic, scientific, and news-related discussions. When writing, use it to precisely specify the cognitive perspective being applied, and consider alternatives like "line of reasoning" or "intellectual path" to add nuance to your expression. Avoid confusing it with a lack of thought, and ensure clarity in your writing by specifying what you mean by "direction of thinking".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approach to thought

Focuses on the method or strategy used in thinking.

line of reasoning

Focuses on the logical progression of thought, rather than the overall approach.

intellectual trajectory

Emphasizes the progression and evolution of thought over time.

train of thought

Emphasizes the sequential nature of thinking, like a journey from one idea to another.

way of viewing

Highlights the act of perceiving and interpreting information.

intellectual path

Suggests a more deliberate and planned course of thinking.

mental course

Highlights the cognitive process and its progression.

frame of mind

Describes the overall mental state or attitude influencing thought.

cognitive orientation

Refers to a specific way of perceiving and processing information.

perspective

Emphasizes a particular viewpoint or angle of consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "direction of thinking" in a sentence?

You can use "direction of thinking" to describe a specific approach or perspective in considering a topic. For example: "The company needs a new "approach to thought" to tackle these challenges effectively."

What's the difference between "direction of thinking" and "train of thought"?

"Direction of thinking" refers to a general approach or perspective, while "train of thought" refers to the sequential flow of ideas. "Train of thought" is more about the specific sequence of thoughts, whereas "direction of thinking" sets the overall course.

What can I say instead of "direction of thinking"?

You can use alternatives like "line of reasoning", "approach to thought", or "cognitive orientation" depending on the context.

Is "direction of thinking" formal or informal language?

"Direction of thinking" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. However, depending on your audience, you might choose a more specific or technical term like "cognitive orientation" in a formal setting.