think out

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "think out" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the process of considering or reasoning through something in a thoughtful manner. Example: "Before making a decision, it's important to think out all the possible consequences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Think out a new idea," he explained.

Independent

I think out styles complement each other".

The Guardian - Sport

She began to think out loud, scribbling revisions on drawings.

The New Yorker

I used to think that because I am the kind of leader who likes to think out loud, then everybody is supposed to think out loud.

The New York Times

"You can't think out loud in politics without consequences, and he likes to think out loud," Ed Rollins said.

The New Yorker

("It's really dangerous to think out loud, but I'm going to do it," Fried advised.

The New Yorker

Reuvkeh Roth would think out loud: "Ben Gurion is a great chess player.

The New Yorker

I always speak spontaneously, because I've found that it really is possible to think out loud.

The New Yorker

Like Jackson, he said he was not ready to think out loud about his options.

The New York Times - Sports

At first Roma sounds as if he just wants to think out loud.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

I think out-of-towners jacked up the price".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "think out", ensure it's followed by a direct object specifying what is being considered. For instance, "think out a plan" is clearer than simply "think out".

Common error

While "think out" is acceptable, in formal writing, consider alternatives like "deliberate" or "formulate" for a more professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "think out" primarily functions as a verb indicating the action of carefully planning, considering, or reasoning through something. Ludwig examples show its use in contexts ranging from devising new ideas to contemplating potential outcomes.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Wiki

26%

Science

22%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrasal verb "think out" is a useful and relatively common expression for describing the act of careful planning and consideration. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and appears in various contexts, including news, science and general writing. While the expression is used in a variety of mediums, it's more common in neutral to informal communications. Related phrases include "work out", "figure out" and "plan meticulously", which can offer more precise connotations depending on the specific context. For formal contexts, consider using alternatives such as "deliberate" or "formulate" for a more professional tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

work out

A shorter, more common synonym that implies problem-solving or planning.

reason thoroughly

Emphasizes the logical and comprehensive process of thinking.

figure out

Suggests finding a solution through thinking.

plan meticulously

Focuses on detailed planning and preparation.

strategize effectively

Focuses on creating a useful strategy by thinking something through.

devise carefully

Highlights the inventive aspect of thinking something through.

contemplate deeply

Stresses the depth and intensity of the consideration.

deliberate at length

Highlights the extended period spent considering something.

hammer out

Suggests a more vigorous and potentially contentious process of thinking something through to a final resolution.

thrash out

Implies a more intense and potentially difficult process of thinking something through, often involving debate or disagreement.

FAQs

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

You can use "think out" to describe the process of carefully planning or considering something, as in, "Before starting the project, we need to "think out" all the potential problems".

What are some alternatives to "think out"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "work out", "figure out", or "plan meticulously".

Is it better to say "think out loud" or "think aloud"?

"Think out loud" and "think aloud" are both acceptable, but "think aloud" is generally considered the more standard and grammatically correct form. "Think out loud" is more of an idiomatic expression.

What's the difference between "think out" and "consider"?

"Consider" is a more general term for thinking about something. "Think out" often implies a more detailed and structured process of planning or problem-solving. For example, you might "consider" a job offer, but you would "think out" a strategy to negotiate your salary.