on the brain

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the brain" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is occupying one's thoughts or is a topic of concern. Example: "I've had that catchy song on the brain all day long."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

CARINE ROITFELD has babies on the brain.

The New York Times

I get ice on the brain.

The New Yorker

Little growths on the brain?

The New York Times

"That feels good on the brain".

The New York Times

They have Heat on the brain.

The New York Times - Sports

I definitely had zips on the brain.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Clearly someone has sex on the brain.

The Guardian

Operations on the brain carry grave risks.

The Guardian

They've got Jean Monnet on the brain.

The New York Times

The effect of meninges on the brain response is examined.

Composites Part B: Engineering

Water on the brain or hydrocephalus?

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider using synonyms like "preoccupied with" or "obsessed with" for variety, but be mindful of the subtle differences in connotation.

Common error

Avoid using "on the brain" when you simply mean someone is aware of something. It implies a stronger level of preoccupation than simple awareness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the brain" functions as an adjective phrase, often modifying a noun or pronoun to indicate a state of preoccupation or obsession. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the brain" is a common and grammatically correct way to express that someone is intensely preoccupied with a particular thought or idea. Ludwig AI confirms its prevalence across diverse sources. While acceptable in most contexts, more formal situations may benefit from synonyms like "preoccupied with" or "engrossed in". Remember that "on the brain" suggests a higher degree of mental engagement than simple awareness, and be mindful of this nuance in your writing. The idiom appears frequently in news, media and academia, with its meaning being consistent across different contexts, indicating reliable usage.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

obsessed with

Highlights the compulsive nature of thinking about something.

consumed by

Emphasizes the all-encompassing nature of one's thoughts.

preoccupied with

Focuses on the state of being absorbed by something.

fixated on

Indicates a persistent and unwavering focus.

wrapped up in

Suggests being completely engrossed and involved in something.

engrossed in

Implies deep attention and involvement, similar to 'wrapped up in'.

thinking constantly about

Directly states the continuous nature of the thought process.

haunted by

Indicates a recurring and often distressing thought.

mindful of

Emphasizes awareness and consideration of something.

remembering

The person is not just thinking about something in abstract, but explicitly remembering something.

FAQs

How can I use "on the brain" in a sentence?

You can say, "She's had that project "on the brain" all week," meaning she's been constantly thinking about it.

What's a more formal way to say "on the brain"?

While "on the brain" is generally acceptable, consider using "preoccupied with" or "engrossed in" for a more formal tone.

Is it correct to say "on my brain" or "on the brain"?

"On the brain" is the standard idiomatic expression. "On my brain" is not commonly used and may sound awkward.

When is it appropriate to use "on the brain"?

Use "on the brain" when you want to emphasize that someone is intensely focused or preoccupied with a particular thought, idea, or concern, similar to being "obsessed with" something.