thoughtfully

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "thoughtfully" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an action done with careful consideration or attention to detail. Example: "She thoughtfully arranged the flowers in the vase, ensuring each bloom was perfectly placed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thoughtfully equipped with proper kitchens, Wi-Fi and iPod docks, and brimming with all sorts of art, they feel like proper homes.

The Guardian - Travel

The works, which he trailed on his Instagram account last night, include one piece which somewhat resembles Rodin's sculpture The Thinker, with the figure's hand gone from thoughtfully supporting his face to covering it in despair – or perhaps Niobe, the classical figure weeping for the loss of her children.

The Guardian - Arts

Thoughtfully, they suggested I dig the hole next to the tree that the Queen planted back in 1990.

The Guardian - Music

"We thank the minister for acting thoughtfully in accepting scientific advice on the status of Victoria's wildlife emblem".

The Guardian

Not only does this diminish effectiveness, because they can't improve lessons year on year, but watching thoughtfully crafted lesson plans torn up every September is plain soul-destroying.

The Guardian

Both men end up in prison at Newgate, and must buy their way out with a ruby Plunkett has thoughtfully swallowed.

The Guardian - Film

In January, a campaign for OUP to reinstate the culled "nature words" was launched, drawing support from Margaret Atwood and Michael Morpurgo: OUP has responded positively and thoughtfully.

The Guardian - Books

Lori, an executive from Mattel, told me that Barbie was an "unapologetic" celebration of femininity, and when I said: "Yes yes, but at the end of the visit all the girls get to do is model," she nodded thoughtfully.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I couldn't help but marvel at the layers of slowly wilting vegetables, leaves and grass composed as thoughtfully as a cook might go about a recipe.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

In the end, thoughtfully, he must have decided to do it just after Manly's opening round defeat of Parramatta, figuring he could slip in his "It's not you, it's me" monologue amid their celebrations, thus mitigating Manly's hurt.

The Guardian - Sport

She nodded thoughtfully.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "thoughtfully", ensure it accurately reflects the manner in which an action is performed, emphasizing consideration, care, and attention to detail. For instance, "She listened thoughtfully" suggests she was not just hearing, but actively considering what was being said.

Common error

Avoid using "thoughtfully" to describe actions that are typically routine or don't require significant consideration. For example, saying "He thoughtfully opened the door" might be an overstatement unless there's a specific context implying special care.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "thoughtfully" is as an adverb, modifying verbs, adjectives, or other adverbs to describe the manner in which an action is performed or a quality is exhibited. As supported by Ludwig AI, it indicates a considered or deliberate approach.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Encyclopedias

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Unknown/unmatched sources

5%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "thoughtfully" functions as an adverb to describe actions performed with careful consideration, attention, and deliberation. Ludwig AI confirms it's grammatically correct and widely used across various contexts. It's most common in news and media, encyclopedias and scientific writing, suggesting a neutral to professional register. To use "thoughtfully" effectively, ensure it reflects genuine consideration, avoiding overuse in simple or routine actions. Consider alternatives like "carefully" or "with consideration" depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with consideration

Focuses on the act of considering different aspects before acting.

carefully

Emphasizes the attention and caution taken in performing an action.

deliberately

Highlights the intentional and planned nature of the action.

attentively

Stresses the focus and attention given to something.

with attention to detail

Highlights precision and thoroughness.

mindfully

Implies a conscious and present awareness in the action.

with great care

Emphasizes the level of care and concern.

circumspectly

Indicates caution and awareness of potential consequences.

prudently

Suggests wisdom and good judgment.

with forethought

Focuses on planning and anticipation of future needs.

FAQs

How can I use "thoughtfully" in a sentence?

Use "thoughtfully" to describe actions done with careful consideration or attention. For example: "She "thoughtfully" arranged the flowers." or "He "thoughtfully" considered her proposal before responding.

What can I say instead of "thoughtfully"?

You can use alternatives like "carefully", "deliberately", or "with consideration" depending on the context.

Which is correct: "thoughtfully considered" or "considerately considered"?

"Thoughtfully considered" is generally preferred when emphasizing careful thought and deliberation. "Considerately considered" might be used if the focus is on being mindful of others' feelings, although it's less common.

What's the difference between "thoughtfully" and "attentively"?

"Thoughtfully" implies careful consideration and planning, while "attentively" suggests paying close attention. For example, one might "thoughtfully" plan a surprise party and "attentively" listen to the guest of honor's speech.