1 C1 idiomatic informal
To spend time slowly and deeply reflecting on an idea or concept, allowing it to develop in one's mind.
"Just marinate on that idea for a few days before you decide."
inseparable
marinate on
C1 informal inseparable transitive
(Informal/figurative) To spend time thinking slowly and deeply about an idea, problem, or experience, allowing understanding to develop gradually.
In plain English
Think about something for a while and let the idea develop in your mind.
What does "marinate on" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
In cooking, to marinate means to soak food in seasoned liquid — the metaphor suggests soaking an idea in your thoughts until it is fully absorbed.
Actually means
Think about something for a while and let the idea develop in your mind.
Usage tip
A relatively recent informal coinage, more common in American English. Evokes the culinary sense of food absorbing flavour over time. Used in creative, self-reflective, and casual intellectual contexts.
Words that pair with "marinate on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
idea thought question concept that it
How to conjugate "marinate on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
marinate on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
marinates on
he/she/it
Past simple
marinated on
yesterday
Past participle
marinated on
have + pp
-ing form
marinating on
continuous
Hear "marinate on" in the wild
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Other ways to say "marinate on"
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