encourage thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "encourage thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing the promotion of critical or creative thought in various contexts, such as education or brainstorming sessions. Example: "The goal of this workshop is to encourage thinking among participants to foster innovative solutions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

We would encourage thinking "inside the box".

The New York Times

The conference was organized "to encourage thinking about the role of liberal arts education in an era of climate change".

The New York Times

The arts encourage thinking and creativity which, in our knowledge-based economy, is more important than ever.

The Guardian

The report said the Indigenous advancement strategy appeared at first to encourage "thinking big and... innovative solutions".

The Guardian

I encourage thinking.

International Journal of STEM Education

Videos such as those used in this study were selected to encourage thinking, participating and contributing to discussion about science ideas.

Asia-Pacific Science Education

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

One of Austen's funnier creations is Mr. Elton, the young vicar of Highbury, whose suit Emma encourages, thinking he is courting Harriet and clueless that the social-climbing clergyman aspires to her hand and fortune.

The New York Times - Arts

In this context, teacher Sara asks more 'why' Questions encouraging thinking.

Functional Linguistics

I was encouraged, thinking for a brief moment that the chorus of anti-D.A.R.E.

Huffington Post

Collectively, these findings encouraged thinking that many plasticity zone genes are functional, and that some could affect H. pylori phenotypes such as persistence or virulence in particular host environments.

Plosone

The latter, by means of the character of the retired psychologist, also encourages thinking over the reasons leading to the choice of a helping profession, and on the lights and shadows of this choice.

BMC Medical Education

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "encourage thinking", consider the specific type of thinking you want to promote, such as critical, creative, or strategic, and tailor your language accordingly.

Common error

Avoid using "encourage thinking" in situations where the specific goal is action rather than contemplation. For example, "encourage action" is better than "encourage thinking" when immediate steps are needed.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "encourage thinking" primarily functions as a verb phrase followed by a gerund. It is used to express the act of promoting or stimulating cognitive processes. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Science

41%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

2%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "encourage thinking" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression to describe the act of promoting cognitive processes. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is suitable for various contexts, ranging from news and media to scientific and educational domains. Alternatives such as "stimulate thought" or "foster reflection" can be used to add nuance. When using this phrase, it's important to consider the specific type of thinking you aim to promote and avoid overgeneralization. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "encourage thinking" to communicate your intentions and foster intellectual engagement.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

stimulate thought

Focuses more on initiating thought processes.

inspire contemplation

Highlights the aspect of inspiring thoughtful consideration.

foster reflection

Implies encouraging deeper, more contemplative thought.

provoke thought

Emphasizes challenging or questioning existing beliefs.

enable understanding

Highlights the promotion of comprehension and insight.

promote ideation

Specifically refers to encouraging the generation of ideas.

spur creativity

Specifically aims to stimulate inventive and original thought.

cultivate intellect

Suggests a more gradual and nurturing development of thinking abilities.

facilitate reasoning

Focuses on enabling logical and analytical thought processes.

invite scrutiny

Suggests encouraging careful examination and evaluation.

FAQs

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

You can use "encourage thinking" to describe actions that promote cognitive processes. For example, "The workshop aims to "encourage thinking" about innovative solutions."

What are some alternatives to "encourage thinking"?

Alternatives include "stimulate thought", "foster reflection", or "promote ideation" depending on the specific context.

Is "encourage thinking" formal or informal?

"Encourage thinking" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, making it a versatile phrase. However, for highly formal writing, consider alternatives like "cultivate intellect".

What's the difference between "encourage thinking" and "encourage thought"?

"Encourage thinking" focuses on the process of thought, whereas "encourage thought" refers to a single instance or idea. While both are grammatically correct, "encourage thinking" is generally preferred when discussing ongoing cognitive activity.