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Phrasal verbs "mull over" vs "think over"

Differences between mull over and think over

Mull over and think over are similar in meaning, but mull over implies a deeper level of contemplation and consideration. It suggests that the person is taking their time to think about something carefully and thoroughly, while think over simply means to consider or reflect on something.

Meanings and Definitions: mull over vs think over

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Mull over

  • 1Think about an issue or problem.

    She said that she'd had to MULL IT OVER before deciding what was the right thing to do.

Think over

  • 1Consider something carefully.

    I've THOUGHT it OVER and have made up my mind; I'm going to take the job in Leeds.

Usage Examples: mull over, think over in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

mull over

Example

I need to mull over my options before making a decision.

Example

She mulls over the pros and cons before choosing a university.

think over

Example

I need to think over the job offer before making a decision.

Example

She thinks over her options before choosing a university.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Mull over

ponder

To think about something deeply and carefully.

Example

She spent hours pondering the implications of the decision before making a choice.

ruminate on

To think about something slowly and carefully, often for a long time.

Example

He liked to ruminate on his past experiences and draw lessons from them.

meditate on

To focus one's thoughts on a particular subject or idea, often in a calm and deliberate manner.

Example

She would often meditate on the beauty of nature during her morning walks.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Think over

consider

To think about something carefully before making a decision.

Example

He needed some time to consider the job offer before accepting it.

contemplate

To think about something deeply and carefully, often with a sense of awe or wonder.

Example

She liked to contemplate the mysteries of the universe while stargazing at night.

reflect on

To think about something carefully and deeply, often with a sense of nostalgia or regret.

Example

He liked to reflect on his childhood memories and the lessons he learned from them.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “think”

Differences in mull over vs think over: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: mull over or think over?

Both mull over and think over are commonly used in everyday conversation, but think over is more frequently used. Mull over is often used in more formal or literary contexts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of mull over and think over

Both mull over and think over are relatively informal phrases that are suitable for most casual conversations. However, mull over may be perceived as slightly more formal than think over due to its less frequent usage in everyday conversation.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of mull over and think over

The tone of mull over and think over is generally thoughtful and reflective. However, mull over may suggest a more serious or weighty tone than think over, which can be used in a more lighthearted or casual context.

mull over & think over: Synonyms and Antonyms

Mull over

Synonyms

Antonyms

Think over

Synonyms

Antonyms

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