i was brainstorming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I was brainstorming" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing a process of generating ideas or solutions, often in a collaborative or individual context. Example: "Yesterday, I was brainstorming ideas for our upcoming marketing campaign, and I came up with several innovative concepts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

I was brainstorming with the museum director over lunch, and the containers were there.

The New York Times - Magazine

We were in Milan at the time, and I was brainstorming what to do.

The New York Times

"Several months ago, I was brainstorming a gift for two friends who had recently gotten engaged.

TechCrunch

In July of 2005, I was brainstorming for a website idea.

Huffington Post

When I was thinking of a name for YouTube, I was brainstorming, and "Jessicann" is so positive.

Los Angeles Times

"As I was brainstorming this show, I found that I kept channeling the word 'highlight.' I had artists in mind, but didn't have a theme.

Vice

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

After Mrs. Rockefeller died in 1996, Ms. Dulany said, "my father and I were brainstorming, looking for something not only that would earn income -- the restaurant -- but some kind of program that was in keeping with her ideas, the value of sustainable agriculture," and a way to save the farm's Norman-style timber-and-stone barns, built by John D. Rockefeller Jr. in the 1930's.

The New York Times

A:When my co-founder Kevin Gibbs and I were brainstorming what we wanted to work on together, we were immediately drawn to productivity software.

Huffington Post

He and I were brainstorming on how to get this new line off the ground and Kickstarter seemed like the perfect route.

Huffington Post

In this case, I got together with her in a studio visit and was brainstorming some things I was trying to think about in terms of the show.

Huffington Post

So naturally, I have been brainstorming on what I will do next.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I was brainstorming", specify the context or subject of your brainstorming session to provide clarity and relevance.

Common error

Avoid using "I was brainstorming" without providing any context. Instead of simply stating that you were brainstorming, briefly mention the topic or goal of the brainstorming session to make your statement more informative.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I was brainstorming" functions as a verb phrase indicating an action in the past. It describes the process of generating ideas or solutions. Ludwig examples show it is used to preface the purpose or result of the brainstorming activity.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "I was brainstorming" is a grammatically sound and readily usable expression in English to describe the activity of generating ideas. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is correct and suitable for written communication. The analysis reveals that the phrase finds its primary usage in the News & Media context. While not exceptionally frequent, "I was brainstorming" effectively conveys that you were actively involved in creative problem-solving. Remember, providing context about the subject of your brainstorming adds significant value to your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I was generating ideas

Focuses on the act of creation rather than the collaborative aspect of brainstorming.

I was thinking creatively

Emphasizes the creative process behind the thinking.

I was exploring solutions

Highlights the problem-solving aspect of the process.

I was developing concepts

Focuses on the development and refinement of ideas.

I was considering possibilities

Emphasizes the exploration of different options.

I was mulling over ideas

Suggests a more reflective and contemplative approach.

I was pondering options

Implies a careful consideration of different choices.

I was devising strategies

Highlights the planning and strategic thinking involved.

I was formulating plans

Focuses on the creation of specific plans and actions.

I was conceiving ideas

Emphasizes the initial formation of ideas.

FAQs

What does "I was brainstorming" mean?

The phrase "I was brainstorming" describes the act of generating new ideas, solutions, or approaches, often in a group setting but also individually. It implies a creative and exploratory thinking process.

What can I say instead of "I was brainstorming"?

You can use alternatives like "I was generating ideas", "I was thinking creatively", or "I was exploring solutions" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I brainstormed" instead of "I was brainstorming"?

Yes, both phrases are grammatically correct. "I brainstormed" is a simple past tense, while "I was brainstorming" is past continuous tense, emphasizing the ongoing nature of the activity at a specific time.

How to use "I was brainstorming" in a sentence?

Use "I was brainstorming" to describe a past event where you were actively engaged in generating ideas. For example, "I was brainstorming with my team yesterday to come up with new marketing strategies."