it makes one think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it makes one think" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when discussing a topic, idea, or statement that provokes thought or reflection. Example: "The documentary was so well-made that it makes one think about the impact of climate change on future generations."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

With all the acquisitions Yahoo has been making of late, it makes one think that, for its next acquisition, Yahoo should go for some new video technology.

TechCrunch

It makes one think about the level of hypocrisy in our "war on drugs" here at home.

Vice

It makes one think as well.

The New York Times

It makes one think back to 2003, when Real was signing the stars known as the Galácticos.

The New York Times - Sports

It makes one think about how a miniature tree could survive the blast, and how it's become a monument to the people who did not.

The Washington Post

"If your skin looks unhealthy and draggy, it makes one think that your mind is sluggish as well," she says, her fork hovering in midair.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Seeing it made one think of another genre that, for want of a better name, might be called Neo-Rouge.

The New York Times

It made one think about endings and about finales and, indeed, about the ending of the finale, for the latest finale in the sequence was the one from Prokofiev's "Alexander Nevsky," written shortly before World War II.

The New York Times - Arts

It made one think about some of the things that made America unique.

HuffPost

It made one think about what quips -- and calls to action -- Lennon would be making today.

Huffington Post

It made one think of the fragility of life and the murderous stupidity of those who cause these deaths.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

This phrase is most effective when followed by a specific and insightful observation, prompting deeper consideration of the topic at hand.

Common error

Avoid using "it makes one think" as a generic filler phrase. Ensure that it genuinely introduces a thought-provoking element rather than simply padding your writing.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it makes one think" functions as an introductory phrase to signal a reflection or inference drawn from a preceding statement or situation. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

19%

Academia

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it makes one think" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to introduce a thought or reflection stemming from a preceding statement. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, its purpose is to encourage consideration of a particular viewpoint. While versatile, avoiding overuse as a filler is crucial. Alternatives like "it prompts reflection" or "it causes one to ponder" can offer nuanced substitutions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it prompts reflection

Focuses on the act of reflecting rather than the instigation of thought.

it causes one to ponder

Emphasizes a deeper, more contemplative form of thought.

it gives one food for thought

Highlights that something provides material for thinking.

it begs the question

Introduces a question that arises naturally from a statement or situation.

it raises an important point

Highlights the significance of a particular consideration.

it suggests a possibility

Implies a potential outcome or idea worth considering.

it leads one to believe

Focuses on the resulting belief or conclusion.

it encourages contemplation

Emphasizes the act of contemplating something.

it sparks curiosity

Highlights the arousal of interest and further inquiry.

it incites consideration

Focuses on the act of considering something carefully.

FAQs

How can I use "it makes one think" in a sentence?

You can use "it makes one think" to introduce a thought or reflection prompted by a previous statement or situation. For example, "The unexpected ending it makes one think about the true meaning of friendship".

What are some alternatives to "it makes one think"?

Alternatives include "it prompts reflection", "it causes one to ponder", or "it gives one food for thought", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "it makes you think" grammatically correct?

While "it makes you think" is commonly used, "it makes one think" is generally considered more formal and grammatically precise. Both are acceptable, but the latter may be preferred in academic or professional writing.

What's the difference between "it makes one think" and "it makes you wonder"?

"It makes one think" implies a direct consequence leading to a specific thought, while "it makes you wonder" suggests a more open-ended curiosity or speculation. The former is more decisive, the latter more inquisitive.