1 B1 neutral
To consider something carefully, especially before giving an answer or making a choice.
"They've made me a job offer and I'm thinking it over before I respond."
separable
think over
B1 neutral separable transitive
To consider something carefully, usually before making a decision.
In plain English
To take time to think carefully about something before you decide.
What does "think over" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B1 neutral
To reconsider something already done or said, reflecting on whether it was the right choice.
"After thinking it over, she decided to apologise for what she had said."
separable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To turn something over in your mind, examining it from all sides.
Actually means
To take time to think carefully about something before you decide.
Usage tip
Very commonly used when someone wants more time before committing to a decision: 'I'll think it over.' Both separable forms are natural: 'think over the offer' and 'think it over' are equally common.
Words that pair with "think over"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
offer proposal decision question suggestion options
How to conjugate "think over"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
think over
I/you/we/they
3rd person
thinks over
he/she/it
Past simple
thought over
yesterday
Past participle
thought over
have + pp
-ing form
thinking over
continuous
Hear "think over" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "think over" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
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