give thought to

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "give thought to" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express the idea of considering something carefully. For example, "I need to give thought to how I'm going to pay for college."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

Many women have repressed their thoughts about sexual activity and part of their homework was also to allow these thoughts freedom and to give thought to what they wanted and needed sexually.

BMC Women's Health

Clinton & his advisers should give thought to the 4-year election cycle.

The New Yorker

I would like them to give thought to the faithful and encouragement to the faithless.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

'We shall now have to give thought to what to do.

The Guardian

– Ponsford "Give thought to the creation of the film instead of simply watching it.

The Guardian

As we approach the general election next May, we should also give thought to the big, over-arching questions.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

I had never given thought to writing poems.

The New Yorker

Have you given thought to bringing your career full circle with a return to the theater?

The New York Times

In fact, Mr. Fox said he was already giving thought to how he will propose.

The New York Times

Mr. Skelos said he had not given thought to Mr. Cox's future.

The New York Times

I asked him whether he'd given thought to what might come after him.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "give thought to" when you want to convey a sense of deliberate consideration, rather than a quick or impulsive decision.

Common error

Avoid constructions like "Thought should be given to..." which can sound overly formal and less direct. Instead, opt for active constructions to make your writing more engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "give thought to" functions as a verb phrase indicating the act of considering something carefully. This usage is supported by Ludwig, which confirms its correctness and usability in English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "give thought to" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to emphasize the importance of careful consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and usable. Its frequency is high across various domains, particularly in news, media, and scientific contexts. When using "give thought to", ensure clarity and precision in your writing, and avoid passive voice constructions. Alternatives like "consider carefully" or "reflect upon" can provide nuanced variations in meaning, depending on the desired emphasis. Remember to clearly define the object of your thought to enhance clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

consider carefully

Emphasizes the depth of consideration given.

reflect upon

Highlights the act of thoughtful contemplation.

contemplate

Focuses on deep thinking and pondering.

deliberate on

Implies careful and thorough discussion and thought.

weigh up

Suggests balancing different aspects before making a decision.

turn over in one's mind

Indicates repeated consideration.

mull over

Implies slow and careful thinking.

take into consideration

Highlights the inclusion of something in one's thinking.

ponder

Stresses deep and prolonged thought.

ruminate on

Suggests dwelling on a thought, often with a negative connotation.

FAQs

How can I use "give thought to" in a sentence?

You can use "give thought to" to suggest careful consideration, like in the sentence, "You should "give thought to" your career options before making a decision."

What phrases are similar to "give thought to"?

Alternatives include "consider carefully", "reflect upon", or "contemplate", each emphasizing different aspects of thinking.

Is there a difference between "give thought to" and "think about"?

"Give thought to" implies a deeper, more deliberate consideration than simply "think about". It suggests a more formal and thorough process.

When is it appropriate to use "give thought to" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "give thought to" in formal writing, business communications, or when emphasizing the importance of careful consideration before taking action.