think it over

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "think it over" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when suggesting that someone should consider or reflect on a decision or idea before making a choice. Example: "Take your time to think it over before you make a final decision on the job offer."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Then you can think it over".

The New Yorker

Think it over and call me back".

The New York Times - Magazine

"Think it over," she'd say breezily.

The Guardian

Think it over and then come back and tell me".

The New Yorker

I'd think it over and give him an answer soon.

The New York Times

Bartoszek would think it over with his people and get back to the Mets.

The New York Times - Sports

Will you think it over?" Otherwise, better to bear your shame in silence.

The New York Times

He shook Kemp's father's hand, told him to think it over, and walked out.

The New York Times - Sports

Think it over, gentle readers.

BBC

Take your time, think it over, and make a decision.

Forbes

They think it over for a second.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When asking someone to "think it over", provide a specific timeframe to avoid indefinite delays in decision-making.

Common error

While "think it over" is widely understood, it can sound too casual in formal or business settings. Opt for phrases like "consider the proposal" or "review the details" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "think it over" functions as a phrasal verb, used to advise or suggest contemplation before making a decision. Ludwig AI confirms the widespread usage of this expression across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

7%

Academia

4%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "think it over" is a common and grammatically sound phrasal verb used to suggest consideration before making a decision. Ludwig AI confirms its prevalence across various contexts, particularly in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's advisable to use more formal alternatives in professional settings. Remember to provide a timeframe when asking someone to "think it over" to encourage a timely response. Consider alternatives like "mull it over" or "consider the matter" based on the specific context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mull it over

This suggests a more internal and contemplative consideration.

reflect upon it

Emphasizes a deeper, more thoughtful consideration of the matter.

consider the matter

A more formal and direct way of suggesting careful thought.

give it some thought

Suggests allocating time and mental energy to contemplate something.

ponder upon it

Implies a more weighty and philosophical consideration.

chew on it

An informal way to suggest prolonged consideration.

deliberate on it

Highlights the need for careful and thorough discussion and thought.

weigh it up

Suggests balancing different aspects before making a decision.

take it under advisement

A formal phrase indicating that something will be carefully considered.

sleep on it

Suggests making a decision after a period of rest and reflection.

FAQs

How can I use "think it over" in a sentence?

You can use "think it over" to suggest someone should consider something carefully, as in: "I'd like you to "think it over" before making a decision."

What's a more formal way to say "think it over"?

In formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "consider the matter", "reflect upon it", or "deliberate on it" as alternatives to "think it over".

Is it correct to say "think over it" instead of "think it over"?

No, the correct phrasing is "think it over", as it's a phrasal verb where the particle 'over' must follow the pronoun 'it'. "Think over it" is grammatically incorrect.

What's the difference between "mull it over" and "think it over"?

"Mull it over" implies a more internal and perhaps prolonged consideration, whereas "think it over" is a more general suggestion to consider something.