gather your thoughts

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'gather your thoughts' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase when you want to tell someone to take a moment to collect their ideas before they speak or act. For example, you might say, "Take a moment to gather your thoughts before you answer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Take a walk away from the ball and gather your thoughts.

The New York Times - Sports

"Emotionally, I'm bankrupt," says Shah. "You can't really gather your thoughts.

The Guardian

Take a break to gather your thoughts or check in with friends.

Columbia University

Elevators are spaces to gather your thoughts while getting somewhere, a necessity to endure, not a pleasure.

The New York Times

The guides said to us: "Go and lie on the salt for five minutes and gather your thoughts".

Independent

First, calm yourself so you can gather your thoughts and take measured, appropriate action, rather than reacting impulsively.

Harvard Business Review

Largely because of Twitter, it's out of fashion these days to gather your thoughts before speaking your mind.

The Washington Post

Before you step out on your opponent's court down, 3-1, you need a chance to just gather your thoughts.

The New York Times - Sports

"You have to remain calm and gather your thoughts and figure out what's the best course of direction to go," Melvin said after the wild game had ended.

The New York Times - Sports

Most rehearsal spaces have nooks and crannies where you can gather your thoughts before an audition, quietly warm up or illegally sneak a smoke.

The New York Times

We decided to gather your thoughts on the issue, asking you on Twitter what companies can do to help mainstream sustainability.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When facing a complex decision or stressful situation, take a break to "gather your thoughts". This allows for a clearer perspective and reduces impulsive reactions.

Common error

Avoid making important decisions or responding to critical situations without first taking the time to "gather your thoughts". A hasty response can often lead to regret.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "gather your thoughts" functions as an imperative, encouraging someone to pause and reflect on their ideas. Ludwig shows it's used across various contexts from casual advice to formal settings.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "gather your thoughts" is a common and grammatically correct phrase used to encourage reflection and mental organization. Ludwig AI confirms its widespread use across various contexts, from news and media to academic settings. It serves as a neutral and versatile expression, suitable for prompting thoughtful consideration before speaking or acting. Consider using alternative phrases like "collect your thoughts" or "organize your ideas" to diversify your language.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

collect your thoughts

Uses a different verb to convey a similar meaning of organizing ideas.

organize your ideas

Focuses on the arrangement and structure of thoughts.

compose yourself

Emphasizes calming down and regaining control of one's emotions and thoughts.

collect your wits

Highlights the aspect of regaining mental sharpness and focus.

get your head together

An informal way of saying to sort out one's thoughts and feelings.

sort things out in your mind

Focuses on the mental process of clarifying and resolving confusion.

take a moment to reflect

Highlights the importance of contemplation and thoughtful consideration.

center yourself

Emphasizes finding inner balance and mental stability.

clear your head

Suggests removing distractions and mental clutter.

contemplate the situation

Implies a more formal and in-depth consideration of the circumstances.

FAQs

How can I use "gather your thoughts" in a sentence?

You can use "gather your thoughts" to suggest someone pauses to reflect, like in the sentence, "Why don't you take a few minutes and "gather your thoughts", and then I'll come back and talk to you about this".

What are some alternatives to "gather your thoughts"?

Alternatives include "collect your thoughts", "organize your ideas", or "compose yourself", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is it better to "gather your thoughts" or "collect your thoughts"?

Both "gather your thoughts" and "collect your thoughts" are correct and largely interchangeable. The choice depends on personal preference, as they carry very similar meanings of organizing one's ideas.

When is it appropriate to tell someone to "gather your thoughts"?

It is appropriate to suggest someone "gather your thoughts" when they seem overwhelmed, confused, or are about to make a decision without careful consideration. It's a gentle way to encourage reflection.