i shall think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I shall think" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when expressing a future intention or decision to contemplate or consider something. Example: "After reviewing the proposal, I shall think about the best course of action before making a decision."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

I shall think about it.

The Guardian

I shall think of that more than anything next week".

The Guardian - Sport

On the evening in question, I shall think about two poems.

The New York Times

When any single digital station produces as much variety and excellence as a single day in the life of Radio 3 or 4 I shall think again.

The Guardian

"If, in some afterlife, conversation is permitted, I shall think it is my duty to seek out Michael Powell and apologise".

The Guardian - Film

As I'll watch the film on TV here, I shall think of the old grandmother at the front of the crowd and her enraptured attention watching members of her own family out hunting.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

It was small and well-read and it minded its Ps & Qs, and I think I shall remember it for some time.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We shall think of something," says her lover.

The Economist

I shall always think of Don with great fondness and treasure the times I had with him, both on and off the bandstand".

Independent

His memory will probably have me looking over my shoulder in the streets of my own city, London, for the rest of my life, and although the thought would probably make him furious, I shall always think of him as part of my history and as part of my identity as a Briton.

The Guardian

I shall not think peace complete if we do not get rid of Gibraltar".

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

While "i shall think" is grammatically correct, be aware that in contemporary English, "i will think" is more common and may sound more natural to modern readers.

Common error

Avoid using "i shall think" in informal contexts where it might sound overly stilted or unnatural. In casual conversations, "i'll think about it" is generally more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "i shall think" functions as an expression of future intention or determination to consider something. It indicates that the speaker plans to engage in a process of contemplation or reflection. Ludwig's examples showcase the phrase in various contexts, primarily in News & Media.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "i shall think" is a grammatically sound and relatively common expression used to convey a future intention to consider something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples from reputable sources, primarily in the News & Media category. While generally neutral to formal in tone, it's important to consider the context and audience, as the more modern "i will think" might be preferable in less formal situations. When aiming for a touch of traditional English and a clear commitment to careful consideration, "i shall think" remains a valid and effective choice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

i will consider

A more direct and common way to express future consideration.

i will contemplate

Uses a more formal verb, 'contemplate', suggesting deeper thought than just 'think'.

i shall reflect

Mirroring the formality of the original, but swapping think for reflect.

i intend to ponder

Emphasizes a deliberate and thoughtful consideration in the future.

i will give it thought

A more casual and idiomatic way to say one will think about something.

i plan to reflect on

Focuses on reviewing and thinking deeply about something.

i will mull over

Suggests a slow and careful consideration of something.

i am to consider

A more formal and somewhat archaic way to express future consideration.

i am going to deliberate

Suggests a careful and thorough discussion or consideration, often before making a decision.

i will turn it over in my mind

Emphasizes the process of mentally examining something from different angles.

FAQs

How to use "i shall think" in a sentence?

You can use "i shall think" to express a future intention to consider something, such as, "After the meeting, "i shall think" about the best course of action".

What can I say instead of "i shall think"?

You can use alternatives like "i will consider", "i intend to reflect", or "i will give it thought" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "i shall think" or "i will think"?

Both "i shall think" and "i will think" are grammatically correct, but "i will think" is more commonly used in contemporary English. "I shall" retains a formal tone. Traditionally, "shall" was used with "I" and "we" to express simple futurity, while "will" was used with other subjects. This rule is less strictly followed today.

What's the difference between "i shall think" and "i will think"?

"I shall think" and "i will think" both express future intention, but "i shall think" carries a more formal tone and a stronger sense of commitment. "I will think" is a more general and common expression of future consideration.