thought process

USAGE SUMMARY

"thought process" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the internal process of reasoning or decision making. For example: He was able to come to a logical conclusion after going through a careful thought process.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Only thought process.

The Washington Post

"My thought process is completely different.

The New York Times - Sports

DT: This is thought process.

The Washington Post

This is thought process, right?

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

I would say, just thought process.

The Washington Post

Yes, thought process.

Huffington Post

It's a no thought process.

Huffington Post

Probably that's not our thought process.

Vice

The thought process: 'Oh, the dignified northerner!

Vice

The patient's thought process and content were unremarkable.

BMC Psychiatry

Change your thought process.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a complex decision or analysis, use "thought process" to clearly articulate the steps taken to arrive at the conclusion.

Common error

Avoid using "thought process" in every context where thinking is implied. Sometimes, simpler words like "thinking" or "reasoning" can be more direct and effective.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thought process" primarily functions as a noun phrase, referring to the sequence of thoughts and considerations that lead to a conclusion or decision. Ludwig shows examples in various contexts, indicating its broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Wiki

19%

Science

19%

Less common in

Formal & Business

6%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "thought process" refers to the sequence of thoughts and considerations involved in reaching a conclusion or decision. Ludwig AI analysis confirms it is grammatically correct and commonly used across various contexts, including news, academia, and general writing. While versatile, it's best used when detailing the steps of reasoning to avoid redundancy. Alternatives like "reasoning approach" and "intellectual process" offer more formal options, as needed. By understanding its function and usage, you can effectively use "thought process" to enhance clarity and transparency in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

intellectual process

Emphasizes the mental activity and progress.

mental reasoning

Highlights the application of logic and intellect.

line of thinking

Focuses on the direction and progression of thoughts.

reasoning approach

Focuses on the systematic steps taken to reach a conclusion.

logical sequence

Stresses a rational and ordered arrangement of thought steps.

mental strategy

Highlights the deliberate planning involved in thinking.

cognitive pathway

Emphasizes the mental route or progression taken during thinking.

cognitive pattern

Focuses on the recurring structure of thinking.

intellectual route

Highlights a strategic path followed during consideration.

decision-making calculus

Implies structured calculations involved in making choices.

FAQs

How can I describe a complex "thought process" concisely?

Break down the process into key steps, highlighting the most important considerations and decisions made at each stage. Using clear and direct language will help ensure clarity.

What's a more formal alternative to "thought process"?

In a formal context, consider using phrases like "reasoning approach" or "intellectual process" to convey a similar meaning with a more elevated tone.

When is it appropriate to use "thought process" in writing?

Use "thought process" when you need to emphasize the step-by-step mental activity or the reasoning behind a decision, rather than just the decision itself.

Is there a difference between "thought process" and "thinking process"?

While both phrases are similar, "thought process" is generally preferred and more commonly used, as it subtly emphasizes the structure and direction of the thinking, whereas "thinking process" is more generic.