i started thinking

USAGE SUMMARY

"I started thinking" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used in various contexts to indicate the beginning of a thought process or a change in thinking. Example: "After hearing the news, I started thinking about how I could help the victims of the disaster."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

I didn't think it was anything different 'til my mum said some stuff I started thinking.

BMJ Open

"I started thinking about Lakewood.

The New York Times

"So I started thinking about it".

The New York Times

Recently, I started thinking about suicide.

The New Yorker

Of course, I started thinking about girls.

The New Yorker

"I started thinking about the implications".

The New York Times

"I started thinking about joy," Blakely said.

The New Yorker

He added: "I started thinking too much.

The New York Times - Sports

I started thinking about the subway.

The New York Times

I started thinking about hypnotherapy.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Probably before I started thinking.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "I started thinking" to clearly indicate the point at which your thought process began. This can provide context and help the reader understand the evolution of your ideas.

Common error

While it's useful for setting the scene, avoid using "I started thinking" excessively. Too much self-narration can make your writing sound repetitive. Instead, vary your sentence structure and consider directly stating the conclusion of your thoughts.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of the phrase "I started thinking" is to act as an intransitive verb phrase. It indicates the commencement of a mental process. Ludwig shows that this phrase is commonly used to introduce a thought, reflection, or consideration.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

16%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I started thinking" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that signals the initiation of a thought process. Ludwig AI indicates this phrase is suitable for various contexts, primarily in News & Media. While versatile, it's essential to avoid overuse and consider more formal alternatives in academic or scientific writing. The phrase serves as a crucial transitional element, providing context and clarity to the evolution of ideas. Related phrases such as "I began to consider" or "it occurred to me" offer nuanced alternatives, enhancing the precision of expression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I began to consider

Emphasizes the initiation of a deliberate thought process.

I commenced contemplating

Highlights a more prolonged and thoughtful reflection.

I turned my thoughts to

Suggests a redirection of focus towards a specific topic.

I found myself pondering

Implies a more passive and unintentional entry into a state of thought.

I gave thought to

Highlights the act of dedicating mental energy to something.

It occurred to me

Indicates a sudden realization or idea.

I entertained the idea

Suggests the consideration of a possibility or suggestion.

I reflected upon

Emphasizes a deeper and more analytical consideration.

I reasoned

Focuses on logical and analytical thinking.

I surmised

Implies forming an opinion or judgment based on incomplete information.

FAQs

How can I use "I started thinking" in a sentence?

You can use "I started thinking" to introduce a new line of reasoning or a change in perspective. For example, "After the meeting, "I started thinking" about alternative solutions".

What are some alternatives to "I started thinking"?

Alternatives include phrases like "I began to consider", "it occurred to me", or "I reflected upon", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "I started thinking"?

Yes, "I started thinking" is grammatically correct. It follows standard English sentence structure and is widely accepted in both formal and informal contexts.

What's the difference between "I was thinking" and "I started thinking"?

"I was thinking" indicates a continuous thought process, while ""I started thinking"" suggests the beginning of a new thought or a shift in mental focus.