mind is reeling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mind is reeling" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of confusion or being overwhelmed by thoughts or emotions. Example: "After hearing the shocking news, my mind is reeling, and I can't seem to process everything at once."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

My mind is reeling.

The Guardian - Books

All the while, your mind is reeling, yet again, about the long and ongoing history of white supremacy in this country.

The New Yorker

A few hours out of Inverness, my mind is reeling from a road trip utterly removed from the humdrum suburban world of bypasses, dual carriageways and motorway traffic jams.

Independent

"By 8 33 my mind is reeling so wildly with gyrations of the Dow Jones average and the pinwheeling of money funds, Treasury bills and gold markets that I often require a calming infusion of brandy". The show attained its biggest audience, some six million viewers, in the mid-1980's.

The New York Times

My mind is reeling with the potential for drone use and more not just the potential, but the amazing things we can learn and be inspired by...none of which are "disruptive" but rather are changing the world.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

My mind was reeling.

The New York Times - Magazine

Rabbi Mazo was unsure when he went to bed that night; his mind was reeling.

The New York Times

My mind was reeling at 100 kilometers an hour.

Huffington Post

My mind was reeling with worst possible situations and I could feel my heart race, hands become clammy and mind shutting down.

Huffington Post

In Sheffield I met a man creating safe spaces for people experiencing manic or psychotic episodes: using woods, allotments and – if his project gets planning permission – cobb houses like hobbit holes to create a place of comfort for those whose minds are reeling.

The Guardian - Opinion

Kids are so creative, and their minds are reeling with ideas all the time.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "mind is reeling" when you want to express a sense of being overwhelmed or bewildered by a sudden influx of information or a shocking event. This phrase is best suited for situations where the mental impact is significant and disorienting.

Common error

Avoid using "mind is reeling" too frequently in your writing. While it's a vivid expression, overuse can diminish its impact. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "mind is spinning" or "mind is racing" to keep your writing engaging.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mind is reeling" primarily functions as a descriptive expression. It conveys a state of mental overwhelm or confusion, similar to examples found by Ludwig, where news or experiences cause disorientation. It's an idiomatic way to articulate a strong mental reaction.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "mind is reeling" is a grammatically correct expression used to convey a feeling of being overwhelmed or disoriented. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s appropriate for describing situations where you're grappling with intense or shocking information. Although "mind is reeling" appears primarily in news and media contexts, it's important to use it judiciously to avoid overuse. Alternatives like "mind is spinning" or "mind is racing" can offer variety. While generally neutral in tone, it might be better suited for less formal contexts. Ultimately, understanding its nuances helps in effective and impactful communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mind is spinning

Emphasizes the feeling of rapid, chaotic thoughts.

head is spinning

Focuses on a physical sensation of disorientation.

mind is racing

Highlights the speed and intensity of thoughts.

brain is overloaded

Suggests an excess of information causing mental fatigue.

mind is overwhelmed

Emphasizes the feeling of being unable to cope with thoughts or emotions.

mind is in turmoil

Indicates a state of internal agitation and confusion.

mind is in a whirl

Similar to spinning, suggesting rapid and confusing thoughts.

mind is baffled

Focuses on confusion and lack of understanding.

brain is foggy

Suggests a lack of clarity and focus.

in a state of confusion

A more general expression of being disoriented and unclear.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone says, "My mind is reeling"?

When someone says, "My mind is reeling", it means they are feeling overwhelmed, confused, or disoriented by something they have just learned or experienced. It suggests a significant mental impact that is causing a sense of bewilderment.

How can I use "mind is reeling" in a sentence?

You can use "mind is reeling" to describe a state of mental overwhelm. For example, "After hearing the shocking news, my mind is reeling, and I can't seem to process everything at once."

What can I say instead of "mind is reeling"?

You can use alternatives like "mind is spinning", "head is spinning", or "mind is racing" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "mind is reeling" in formal writing?

While "mind is reeling" is generally acceptable, it might be more suitable for informal or creative writing. In formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "I am overwhelmed" or "I am disoriented" for a more professional tone.