mull over doing something

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "mull over doing something" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used when referring to the act of thinking carefully or considering something before making a decision. Example: "I need to mull over doing something about my career path before making any changes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

"They're enjoining us against doing something that we haven't been doing," Mr. Muller said.

The New York Times

Do something meaningful over the summer.

WikiHow

"It meant I did something worthwhile," Mr. Muller said.

The New York Times

After mulling the idea over for several weeks, she and her husband, Scott Young, did something many would find unthinkable: they unplugged their refrigerator.

The New York Times

I do work a lot in the evenings and weekends reading and mulling things over, but I run once or twice a week to clear my head, get fit and do something different.

The Guardian

A question to mull over as you do your Christmas shopping.

Independent

Nor did he mull over questions of permits and permissions, building codes or certificates of occupancy.

The New York Times

Something to mull over beside the hearth.

The New York Times - Food

Just something to mull over during the post-MacWorld haze.

TechCrunch

"I just wanted to give him something to mull over," Valrie told me.

Los Angeles Times

"I don't think it's something I'm going to dwell on and mull over, I think it was just one of those days where it just didn't come together.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly indicates what action is being considered. Avoid vague references; be specific about the 'something' you are mulling over.

Common error

Avoid using "mull over" in very informal settings or quick decisions. It can sound overly formal or pretentious when a simpler phrase like "think about" would suffice.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "mull over doing something" functions as a phrasal verb indicating a process of thoughtful consideration. It is used to describe the act of carefully thinking about whether to take a specific course of action, suggesting a more in-depth contemplation than simply "thinking about" something. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Wiki

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "mull over doing something" is a grammatically sound and usable phrasal verb that signifies thoughtful consideration before taking action. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. While not overly formal, it suits neutral to professional contexts, indicating a deliberate approach to decision-making. Though frequently found in sources, it's important to use it in contexts where a deeper contemplation is implied, and alternative phrases like "consider undertaking something" can be used for variety or depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Think about doing something

A more general and less intense way of expressing consideration of an action.

Weigh up whether to do something

Focuses on assessing the pros and cons before making a decision.

Give thought to undertaking something

Emphasizes the act of dedicating mental energy to consider an action or project.

Consider undertaking something

Focuses on the act of thinking about beginning a specific task or project; implies a more formal and deliberate consideration.

Contemplate embarking on something

Suggests a more serious and intentional consideration of beginning a significant endeavor.

Ponder taking action on something

Emphasizes a deep, reflective thought process before deciding whether to act.

Deliberate over pursuing something

Implies a careful and thorough discussion with oneself before deciding to follow a particular course of action.

Reflect on initiating something

Highlights a thoughtful examination of starting a new venture or activity.

Turn over in one's mind whether to do something

Indicates a prolonged period of thinking about an action, often from multiple angles.

Brood over initiating something

Implies a worried or troubled consideration of starting an action, often with negative connotations.

FAQs

What does "mull over doing something" mean?

It means to think deeply and carefully about whether to take a particular action, considering all aspects before making a decision.

What can I say instead of "mull over doing something"?

You can use alternatives like "consider undertaking something", "think about doing something", or "ponder taking action on something" depending on the context.

Is it more formal to say "mull over doing something" or "think about doing something"?

"Mull over doing something" is generally considered more formal and implies a more thorough and deliberate thought process than "think about doing something".

How to use "mull over doing something" in a sentence?

Example: "I need to mull over doing something about my career path before making any changes." It shows careful consideration is required before making a decision.