i am actually thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am actually thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to express that you are currently engaged in thought or contemplation, often in response to a question or statement. Example: "When you asked me about my plans for the weekend, I realized I am actually thinking about going hiking."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It is, she says, not as simple as that: "When I am spraying fake tan on paper I am actually thinking of people making cave paintings.

The Guardian - Arts

"I am actually thinking of Eden Hills as my primary residence," Dr. Josephs said, adding that, eventually, "I will live in Israel, and then visit my second home — in New Jersey".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

I laugh and pretend to think it's cute, while what I'm actually thinking is "Dear God, I know the gays are fighting for marriage equality, but I never want to have a wedding".

Huffington Post

"I was actually thinking 'If I lose today and I lose in doubles I think I can catch a flight on Friday'.

The Guardian - Sport

I'm actually thinking about reaching out to her, just to give her a little shout-out, and I think that's amazing.

Huffington Post

LEIBOVICH: I was actually thinking about this.

Harvard University

LEIBOVICH: I'm actually thinking of revisiting that.

Harvard University

I'm actually thinking we will have it rented sooner".

The New York Times

"I'm actually thinking of leaving fashion," he declared.

The New York Times - Style

I ran there this morning and I was actually thinking: "This is my favourite place".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I was so scared, I was actually thinking of running away.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "i am actually thinking" to introduce a thought that might be surprising or contrary to what was previously expected.

Common error

Avoid using "i am actually thinking" in every sentence. Overuse can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful.

Linguistic Context

The primary function of "i am actually thinking" is to introduce a current thought or consideration. It often serves to express a realization, a change of mind, or a surprising idea, as demonstrated in Ludwig examples.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Academia

25%

Formal & Business

15%

Less common in

Science

10%

Reference

10%

Social Media

10%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "i am actually thinking" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase to introduce a current thought or consideration. It's versatile for expressing realizations or intentions across various contexts. Ludwig confirms its acceptability and provides numerous examples. While useful, avoid overuse to maintain impact in your writing. Alternatives like "i am currently considering" or "i am reflecting on" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i am seriously considering

Highlights the thoughtfulness.

i am actively thinking about

This alternative adds emphasis to the thinking.

i am currently considering

This phrase emphasizes the ongoing nature of the thought process.

i am reflecting on

This emphasizes a thoughtful review of something.

i am presently contemplating

This alternative uses a more formal verb to describe thinking.

i am mulling over

This suggests a slow, deliberate consideration.

i am giving thought to

This alternative is more formal and indicates serious consideration.

i am in the process of pondering

This suggests a deeper, more reflective form of thinking.

i am turning over in my mind

This implies a more active and internal process of thinking.

i am weighing up

This alternative focuses on comparing different options.

FAQs

How can I use "i am actually thinking" in a sentence?

You can use "i am actually thinking" to introduce a current thought or consideration. For example, "I hadn't planned on going to the party, but I am actually thinking of changing my mind."

What are some alternatives to "i am actually thinking"?

You can use alternatives like "i am currently considering", "i am reflecting on", or "i am seriously considering" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "i am actually think" instead of "i am actually thinking"?

No, "i am actually think" is grammatically incorrect. The correct form is "i am actually thinking", which uses the present continuous tense.

What's the difference between "i am actually thinking" and "i am really thinking"?

"I am actually thinking" often implies a shift in thought or a surprising consideration, while "I am really thinking" simply emphasizes the act of thinking or seriousness of intention.