opening to think

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "opening to think" is not standard in written English and may cause confusion.
It could be used in contexts discussing the process of becoming receptive to new ideas or perspectives. Example: "In order to foster creativity, we must create an environment that encourages an opening to think freely and explore new concepts."

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

It's eye opening to think that the first report of the Surgeon General's Advisory Committee on Smoking and Health was released more than 40 years ago.

Huffington Post

"A page in the book of history has turned, and there is an opening to think about some of our problems from a new perspective," Thiel told the Times.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

This is a space where you and others are open to think about what you don't know, what you don't know you don't know, and to explore possibilities that you never thought about before.

Huffington Post

He finds it electrifying and eye-opening to think of the world as divine, along with everything and everyone in it.

The New Yorker

It's eye-opening to think that soccer players from North America can play soccer in a safe environment, with no discrimination for gender while these women have it the opposite.

The New York Times

It can be very eye-opening to think you're speaking slowly when in fact you're rushing through things.

WikiHow

For example, a project may serve to open people to think about an issue differently or to be more predisposed to messages about it.

Unicef

We are not different but a lot of times we don't have an open mind to think of another perspective.

Huffington Post

"We need to open a space to think about art, culture and history," he said.

The New York Times - Arts

However, the opportunity to travel to other countries opened my life to think of others, and how their lives compare with mine.

The New York Times

"That was the first time that I opened my eyes to think that maybe I could make a comeback".

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "opening to think" with concrete actions or strategies that facilitate intellectual exploration. For instance, specify the methods or environments that promote this openness.

Common error

Avoid relying on "opening to think" in highly formal or academic writing, as it may sound less polished than more conventional phrases like "encouraging critical thinking" or "promoting intellectual curiosity".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "opening to think" functions as an infinitive phrase, suggesting an action or process related to initiating thought. It implies creating a space or opportunity for new ideas and perspectives to emerge. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is acceptable but not standard.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

News & Media

33%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

34%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "opening to think" is an infinitive phrase that suggests initiating a process of reflection and exploration of new ideas. While Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is acceptable it is not standard in written English, it is used to encourage innovative and receptive mindsets, although it may be more appropriate to use common alternatives like "becoming receptive to", "fostering critical thinking", or "embracing new perspectives" depending on the context. Using this phrase is most effective when aiming for a neutral tone but considering that more polished options are advisable for formal writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Becoming receptive to new ideas

This alternative emphasizes the process of becoming more open and welcoming to new concepts or thoughts.

Embracing new perspectives

This alternative emphasizes the act of accepting and integrating different viewpoints.

Cultivating intellectual curiosity

This alternative suggests fostering a desire to learn and understand new things.

Adopting a mindset of inquiry

This alternative highlights the active adoption of a questioning and curious approach.

Developing a capacity for reflection

This alternative focuses on enhancing the ability to think deeply and critically about oneself and the world.

Encouraging innovative thought

This alternative suggests promoting creativity and the generation of new ideas.

Fostering critical thinking

This alternative highlights the development of analytical and evaluative thinking skills.

Promoting mental agility

This alternative focuses on enhancing the flexibility and adaptability of one's thinking.

Stimulating cognitive flexibility

This alternative focuses on enhancing the brain's ability to shift and adapt its thinking processes.

Creating a space for contemplation

This alternative emphasizes establishing an environment conducive to thoughtful consideration.

FAQs

How can I use "opening to think" in a sentence?

You can use "opening to think" to describe a situation or action that encourages new ideas. For example, "The workshop aimed at opening participants to think creatively about problem-solving."

What are some alternatives to "opening to think"?

Alternatives include "becoming receptive to", "fostering critical thinking", or "embracing new perspectives" depending on the specific context.

When is it appropriate to use "opening to think"?

It's appropriate when you want to highlight the initial act of becoming more receptive or exploratory in one's thinking, especially when introducing new information or a different viewpoint.

Is "opening to think" grammatically correct?

While not a standard phrase, it's grammatically acceptable. However, consider if clearer or more common alternatives might better convey your intended meaning.