What is thinking? Pronunciation and usage in English

thinking means . Learn how to pronounce and use thinking through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of thinking

thinkingnoun

/ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/
Definition & pronunciation of thinking

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "thinking." It can be a tricky word for non-native speakers! Here's a breakdown:

1. The Core Sound:

  • "think": This part is quite straightforward. It sounds like "think" as in "I think it's cold." The "th" sound is like the "th" in "this."

2. Adding "-ing":

  • "-ing" is where a lot of people stumble. It's not just a simple "ing." It adds a bit of a pull and a slight "ee" sound.

Here's a phonetic breakdown (using the International Phonetic Alphabet - IPA, which is the most accurate way to represent pronunciation):

  • think – /θɪŋk/ (IPA – This is the initial sound)
  • -ing – /ɪŋ/ (IPA – a short "i" sound, kind of like "in")

Putting it together: /θɪŋkɪŋ/

Here's how to say it in English, step-by-step, and more casually:

  1. "th": Make the "th" sound (as in "this").
  2. "ink": Say "ink" – a short, quick "i" sound.
  3. "ing": Now, add a subtle "ing" sound. It’s almost like a tiny, drawn-out "ee" sound after the "ink." Think of it as a slight pull on the vowel sound. It's not a full “ee” like in “see,” just a little bit of it.

Tips for getting it right:

  • Don't over-emphasize the "ing": It's a subtle addition, not a big, drawn-out sound.

  • Listen to examples: The best way to learn is to hear it. Search for "how to pronounce thinking" on YouTube. You'll find many videos with native speakers. Here are a few good options:

  • Record yourself: Record yourself saying the word and compare it to a native speaker's pronunciation.

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the word for you?
  • Give you some similar words with "-ing" to practice?

Usage and examples with the word thinking in English

Let's break down how to use the word "thinking" in English. It's a very versatile word with lots of different ways to use it! Here's a breakdown, organized by function:

1. As a Verb (Action - What you're doing)

  • Basic Action: This is the most common use. It simply means you're engaged in the process of considering something.

    • "I'm thinking about what to have for dinner."
    • "She’s thinking about her future."
    • "Are you thinking clearly?"

  • Thinking about something specific:

    • "I'm thinking about you." (Often implies concern or affection)
    • "I'm thinking about the problem." (Focusing on a specific issue)
    • "I'm thinking about taking a vacation." (Planning)

  • Thinking aloud: This shows you’re verbally processing ideas.

    • “I’m thinking, maybe we should go to the beach.”
    • "I'm thinking this might be a bad idea." (Expressing doubt)

  • Thinking over something: This implies you're carefully considering something, often for a while.

    • "I need to think over your offer."
    • “He’s been thinking over the situation all day.”

  • Thinking through something: Similar to 'thinking over,' but often about a complicated problem or process.

    • "Let's think through the steps of the plan."

2. As a Gerund (Noun Form – What you are)

When "thinking" is used after a helping verb like "be," "have been," "get," or "seem," it functions as a noun.

  • “Thinking” as a state of mind:

    • "I enjoy thinking." (I enjoy the activity of thinking.)
    • "She's a deep thinker." (She is someone who often thinks deeply.)
    • "He is constantly thinking about his research.”

  • “Thinking” after “be” verbs:

    • "I am thinking about buying a new car." (I am in the process of considering it.)
    • "They were thinking about moving to a new city." (They were considering it.)
    • “He is thinking about joining the club.”

  • “Thinking” after “have been”:

    • "I have been thinking about you lately." (I’ve been considering you.)

  • “Thinking” after “get”:

    • "I get the impression that he's thinking about quitting.” (I’m sensing he's considering it.)

  • “Thinking” after “seem”:

    • "He seems to be thinking about his options."

3. As Part of Phrases

  • “Think about”: To consider something. “Think about your goals.”
  • “Think of”: To imagine or consider something. "Think of a solution!"
  • “Think twice”: To consider carefully before acting. “Think twice before you speak.”
  • “Thinking of you”: Expressing that you're remembering or thinking about someone.
  • “Thinking outside the box”: Thinking creatively and unconventionally.

4. Contractions

  • “I’m thinking” (I am thinking)
  • “He’s thinking” (He is thinking)
  • “They’re thinking” (They are thinking)

Tips for Using “Thinking” Effectively

  • Context is key: The meaning of "thinking" changes depending on how it's used in the sentence.
  • Show, don't just tell: Instead of just saying "I'm thinking," try to show what you're thinking about (e.g., "I'm thinking about how to solve this problem").
  • Variety: Use synonyms like "considering," "pondering," "contemplating," or "evaluating" to avoid repetition.

To help me give you more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What specifically are you trying to do with the word "thinking"? (e.g., write a story, have a conversation, answer a question?)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you’re struggling with?

Synonyms for the word thinking

Idioms of the word thinking

to my way of thinking
in my opinion

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