Thinking

ˈθɪŋkɪŋ

verbBeginnerVery CommonGeneral

Definitions

2 meanings
1

The process of using your mind to consider something.

ˈθɪŋkɪŋ

verbneutralBeginner
General

To use one's mind to consider or reason about something.

I am thinking about what to wear.

💡 Simply: Thinking is like using your brain to figure things out or make decisions. Like when you think about what to eat for dinner or how to solve a puzzle.

👶 For kids: Using your brain to think about something.

More Examples

2

We need to think carefully before making a decision.

3

He's thinking through the consequences of his actions.

How It's Used

General

"She was thinking about her vacation plans."

Philosophy

"Descartes famously declared, "I think, therefore I am.""

2

The process or action of using your mind to consider or reason about something; also, a particular way of thinking.

ˈθɪŋkɪŋ

nounneutralmedium
General

The act or process of thinking.

Her thinking was clear and logical.

💡 Simply: When we talk about thinking as a noun, it's the act of actually using our brains to do stuff. Like, 'Her thinking on the problem was really clear' means how she was dealing with the situation.

👶 For kids: When you are using your brain to think.

More Examples

2

We need to encourage creative thinking in schools.

3

The book explores the complexities of human thinking.

How It's Used

Psychology

"Cognitive processes encompass various aspects of human thinking."

Education

"Critical thinking skills are essential for academic success."

Tip:Think of thinking as a workout for your brain.

Idioms & expressions

think outside the box

To think creatively and unconventionally.

"We need to think outside the box to solve this problem."

thinking cap

A metaphorical cap to signify that one is putting their brain to work on a challenging problem

"I need to put on my thinking cap and figure out how to do this puzzle."

From Old English *þencan* (“to think, intend”), from Proto-Germanic *þankijaną*, from Proto-Indo-European *tóngʰeti* (“to think, feel”).

The word 'thinking' has been used in English for centuries, reflecting the evolution of how humans understand the mind.

Memory tip

Imagine a light bulb turning on in your head – that's thinking!

thingkingthiniking

Usage

60%Spoken
40%Written