i am thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I am thinking" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that you are in the process of considering a decision, problem, or situation. For example, "I am thinking about what I should do for my birthday this year."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"I am thinking about computers".

The Economist

I am thinking about it.

The Guardian

Ms. Tsarnaeva: I am thinking.

The New York Times

"I am thinking big.

The Guardian

"I am thinking positive".

The New York Times

I am thinking Schaub and Kolb trades".

The New York Times - Sports

"I am thinking about a little minivan.

The New York Times

I am thinking of committing suicide".

The New Yorker

Sleepless friends, I am thinking about you.

The New Yorker

I am thinking about chips.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"I am thinking," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

"I am thinking" is often followed by "about", "of", or a direct object. Ensure the correct preposition is used to convey the intended meaning.

Common error

Avoid starting multiple consecutive sentences with "I am thinking". Vary your sentence structure by rephrasing some thoughts with alternatives like "I believe", "I'm considering", or by directly stating the thought without the introductory phrase.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "i am thinking" primarily functions as a declarative statement to express an ongoing cognitive process. As Ludwig AI highlights, it shows that one is currently in the act of considering something, as seen in examples like "I am thinking about computers".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "i am thinking" is a grammatically sound and exceedingly common expression used to indicate a current state of contemplation or consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it serves as a declarative statement, signaling an ongoing cognitive process. Its register is generally neutral, though slightly informal, making it suitable for various contexts, with the examples indicating prevalent use in "news & media". While direct and widely accepted, writers should be mindful of overuse and explore alternatives like "i am considering" for more formal or nuanced expression. Ultimately, understanding the context and purpose is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i'm considering

"Considering" is more formal and implies weighing different options or factors.

i'm contemplating

Uses "contemplating" which implies a more prolonged and serious consideration compared to simply "thinking".

i'm pondering

Pondering suggests a deeper, more reflective thought process than just thinking.

i'm giving thought to

This phrase is slightly more formal and emphasizes the act of dedicating mental energy to something.

i'm reflecting on

"Reflecting on" suggests looking back at something and thinking about it, often from past experiences.

i'm weighing up

Suggests a careful consideration of different options or aspects, often in order to make a decision.

i'm mulling over

"Mulling over" indicates turning something over in your mind, often without reaching a conclusion.

i'm turning it over in my mind

A more descriptive way of saying you're thinking about something, emphasizing the active mental process.

i'm wrestling with

"Wrestling with" implies struggling to understand or solve a difficult problem.

i'm of the opinion

Implies that a conclusion or decision has already been made, indicating a viewpoint.

FAQs

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

Use "i am thinking" to introduce a thought, plan, or consideration. For example, "I am thinking about starting a new hobby" expresses that you are considering taking up a new hobby.

What can I say instead of "i am thinking"?

You can use alternatives like "I am considering", "I am pondering", or "I believe" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "i am thinking" in writing?

It's appropriate to use "i am thinking" when you want to express a current thought process or contemplation. It's suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives might be preferred in academic writing.

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

"I am thinking" suggests an ongoing process of thought, while "I think" usually expresses an opinion or belief. For example, "I am thinking about moving to a new city" implies you are in the process of considering it, whereas "I think it's a good idea" expresses your opinion.