on my mind

USAGE SUMMARY

"on my mind" is a perfectly correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is used to mean that something is occupying one's thoughts or is in their awareness. For example: "I can't stop thinking about what my professor said; it's been on my mind all day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

That's what's on my mind".

The New Yorker

It played on my mind".

Independent

"It's on my mind here.

The New Yorker

Chinatown was on my mind.

The New York Times - Food

It's Always On My Mind.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

That's always on my mind.

The New York Times

It's been on my mind.

The New Yorker

That's on my mind too.

The New York Times

That's on my mind.

The New York Times

Whatever's on my mind.

The Guardian - Music

"It'll always be on my mind.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on my mind" to express that something is occupying your thoughts, whether it's a concern, a plan, or simply something you can't stop thinking about. For example, "The upcoming deadline is on my mind."

Common error

Avoid using "in my mind" when you mean "on my mind". "In my mind" refers to an opinion or belief, while "on my mind" indicates something you're actively thinking about. Correct: "The project deadline is on my mind." Incorrect: "The project deadline is in my mind."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on my mind" functions as a predicate adjective modifying a noun or pronoun, indicating the state of one's thoughts. According to Ludwig, this expression is commonly used to denote something that is occupying one's attention or causing concern. Ludwig's examples confirm its role in expressing current thoughts and preoccupations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on my mind" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to indicate that something is occupying one's thoughts or attention. According to Ludwig, it's widely used across various reputable sources, particularly in News & Media. It's important to use "on my mind" to describe something you're actively thinking about, and avoid confusing it with "in my mind", which refers to an opinion or belief. Alternatives like "occupying my thoughts" or "weighing on me" can be used to add nuance to your expression. Remember that while "on my mind" is versatile, choosing the right phrase can make your writing more precise and impactful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

playing on my mind

Similar to "on my mind", but emphasizes a more repetitive or intrusive thought process.

occupying my thoughts

Focuses more on the mental presence of something, rather than potential worry or concern.

weighing on me

Implies a sense of burden or worry associated with the thought.

preoccupying me

Suggests that something is taking up a significant amount of one's mental energy.

at the forefront of my thoughts

Highlights the prominence or importance of the thought.

consuming my attention

Emphasizes how much focus is being given to the thought.

in my thoughts

A more general way of saying something is being considered.

something I'm contemplating

Implies a more serious and deliberate consideration.

something I'm pondering

Indicates active and thoughtful consideration.

in my consciousness

A more formal way of expressing awareness of something.

FAQs

What does it mean when something is "on my mind"?

When something is "on my mind", it means that you are thinking about it frequently or that it is causing you some concern. It signifies that the thought is currently occupying your attention.

What can I say instead of "on my mind"?

Alternatives to "on my mind" include "occupying my thoughts", "weighing on me", or "playing on my mind", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "in my mind" instead of "on my mind"?

While "in my mind" is a valid phrase, it has a different meaning than "on my mind". "In my mind" refers to your opinion or belief, whereas "on my mind" refers to something you are actively thinking about or concerned about.

How do I use "on my mind" in a sentence?

You can use "on my mind" to describe what you are currently thinking about. For example, "The presentation is constantly on my mind" or "I have a lot of things on my mind right now".