extensive thought

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "extensive thought" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the depth or thoroughness of consideration given to a particular topic or decision. Example: "After extensive thought, we have decided to proceed with the project as planned."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

As has been documented elsewhere, Beckett also devoted extensive thought and reading to a play about Dr. Johnson; in particular, about his long companionship with Hester Thrale and the fracture between them caused by her being widowed and remarried — "she had none of that need to suffer, or necessity of suffering, that he had," Beckett remarks in a letter of 1937.

The New Yorker

He met with Ryan and Idzik Monday morning after "extensive thought and reflection" and informed them they would not be returning.

Huffington Post

But if biobanks are to achieve optimal utility in the long term, it is critical that extensive thought is now put into how we should build on the successes of biobanking science to date, to ensure that biobanks are able to provide effective translational return in the future.

Human Genetics

GORE CONSIDERS HIS LEGACY Vice President Al Gore has clearly given extensive thought to his legacy.

The New York Times

Aides said he had not given extensive thought to possible candidates for the No. 2 slot.

The New York Times

She says she has not given extensive thought to what kind of first lady she might make, but her mother-in-law has some ideas.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

52 human-written examples

"I had come into this meeting with a bunch of hungry executives – it was just before lunch – with a lot of extensive, thought-out pitches that were making them yawn and think about their laundry.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The Portuguese has gone through every area of the current squad, offering extensive thoughts on what could be improved as well as making suggestion about signings that could help strengthen the squad.

Independent

Lena Dunham, the 25-year-old star, writer and director of the new HBO series "Girls," has extensive, definite thoughts about sex.

The New York Times

But Mr. Kellner said that when the tally sheets in all five boroughs had been reviewed, the problem was less extensive than first thought.

The New York Times

Interior ministry figures showed that the protests were far more extensive than first thought, with nearly 40,000 people turning out in 57 towns and cities.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "extensive thought" when you want to emphasize the depth and thoroughness of consideration given to a decision or topic. For example, "After "extensive thought", the committee decided to implement the new policy."

Common error

Avoid using "extensive thought" as a filler phrase. Instead of saying "The decision was made after "extensive thought"", be direct: "We gave the decision "extensive thought" before making it".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "extensive thought" functions as a noun phrase, where "extensive" modifies the noun "thought". It's typically used to describe the act of thinking deeply and thoroughly about something, as shown in Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Science

33%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Formal & Business

8%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "extensive thought" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that denotes a thorough and in-depth consideration of a topic. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is most commonly found in news and media and scientific contexts, signaling its suitability for neutral to formal communication. For enhanced writing, consider alternatives such as "thorough consideration" or "in-depth reflection" to add nuance. While "extensive thought" is generally a sound choice, be mindful of overusing passive voice; instead, frame sentences actively to emphasize who is doing the thinking. By employing these strategies, you can effectively communicate the depth of consideration given to any subject.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

thorough consideration

Emphasizes the completeness and detail of the thinking process.

in-depth reflection

Highlights a deep and careful meditative process.

careful deliberation

Stresses the caution and seriousness of the thought.

profound contemplation

Indicates a deep and meaningful level of thought.

serious consideration

Focuses on the gravity and importance of the thinking.

detailed analysis

Highlights the thoroughness and comprehensiveness of the analytical process.

intensive study

Focuses on concentrated and detailed exploration.

deep thinking

Emphasizes the depth and complexity of the thought process.

substantial reflection

Highlights the significant amount of time spent reflecting.

lengthy consideration

Emphasizes the duration of the thought process.

FAQs

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

You can use "extensive thought" to describe a period of deep consideration, such as, "After "extensive thought", I decided to accept the job offer."

What can I say instead of "extensive thought"?

You can use alternatives like "thorough consideration", "in-depth reflection", or "careful deliberation" depending on the context.

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

"Extensive thought" suggests a thorough and wide-ranging consideration, while "deep thought" implies a profound and complex level of thinking. "Extensive" focuses on breadth; "deep" focuses on profundity.

Is it correct to say "extensively thought" instead of "extensive thought"?

While "extensively" is an adverb and "extensive" is an adjective, "extensively thought" isn't a common or grammatically sound phrase. It's better to stick with the noun phrase "extensive thought" or rephrase the sentence to use "extensively" with a verb, such as "We thought extensively about the issue".