think closely

USAGE SUMMARY

"think closely" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used to encourage someone to consider multiple aspects of a situation or problem. For example, "If you think closely about the situation, you might find a way to solve the problem."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Science & Research

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The process of creating and installing the sculpture has led me to think closely about the school environment for students around the country, and the importance of art as part of the education setting.

The Guardian

Also, he encourages aspiring postdocs, when deciding what group to join, to "pay attention to not just the PI, the research trajectory, [and] the status of the laboratory, which they know is important, but also to think closely about the composition, the internal environment within which they are going to spend many years of their lives," he says.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Moreover, the strength of Janette's desire to make a donation might be thought closely related to the truth of counterfactual claims about whether Janette would have exerted higher amounts of effort had this been required.

Ethical Theory and Moral Practice

But reading Baker made Lipsyte think more closely about how sex works in fiction.

The New York Times - Books

We will also have an initial round of discussion about our own likes and dislikes in the genre and think quite closely about the opening pages of two recently published biographies.

The Guardian

Andreessen: Trust and communication, which we think are closely related.

Forbes

These students are more likely to think that closely related organisms have a common ancestor than those that are more distantly related and that humans are less likely to be connected to common ancestors than nonhuman organisms.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

The internet and outer space, I think, are closely related themes when I make my stories.

Huffington Post

If this seems unconnected to Steuerle's budget concerns, then you need to think more closely.

Huffington Post

There is no right or wrong answer, just whatever you think most closely resembles your foot".

BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders

"Please indicate which of the following descriptions you think most closely matches how resources are allocated across major programs or portfolios by the senior management team in your organization".

BMC Health Services Research

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "think closely", ensure that the context provides specific details or aspects that require careful consideration, enhancing the phrase's impact.

Common error

Avoid using "think closely" in situations that require only basic thought. Opt for simpler alternatives like "think" or "consider" when the situation doesn't demand deep or careful contemplation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "think closely" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It adds emphasis to the act of thinking, indicating that it should be done with care, attention to detail, and thoroughness. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Encyclopedias

15%

Less common in

Science & Research

15%

Wiki

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "think closely" is a grammatically sound adverbial phrase that encourages careful and detailed consideration. While Ludwig AI validates its correctness, it's important to reserve its use for situations genuinely requiring thorough thought, avoiding overuse in simpler contexts. Related phrases like "consider carefully" or "reflect deeply" can serve as alternatives. Its frequency in the examined sources is rare, appearing primarily in news, scientific, and encyclopedia contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

think seriously

Emphasizes the gravity and importance of the thought process.

think deeply

Focuses on the depth and profundity of the thought.

consider closely

Highlights the act of careful consideration and evaluation.

reflect carefully

Implies a thoughtful and deliberate process of contemplation.

examine meticulously

Stresses a detailed and thorough inspection.

analyze thoroughly

Highlights a comprehensive and detailed analysis.

ponder thoughtfully

Suggests a reflective and considerate form of thinking.

deliberate carefully

Emphasizes the cautious and thoughtful nature of decision-making.

scrutinize intently

Implies a sharp and focused examination.

reason deliberately

Focuses on a careful and intentional process of reasoning.

FAQs

How can I use "think closely" in a sentence?

You can use "think closely" to emphasize the need for careful consideration, such as, "You should "think closely" about the potential consequences before making a decision."

What are some alternatives to "think closely"?

Alternatives include "consider carefully", "reflect deeply", or "analyze thoroughly", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is it redundant to say "think very closely"?

While not grammatically incorrect, "think very closely" can be redundant. The word "closely" already implies a high degree of attention and care, so adding "very" may not add significant value.

What is the difference between "think closely" and "think hard"?

"Think closely" suggests a careful examination of details and nuances, while "think hard" implies intense mental effort. You "think closely" to understand details, and "think hard" to solve complex problems.