What are the definitions of “mull over”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “mull over”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb mull over is to think carefully about an issue or problem, usually before making a decision. It involves considering different aspects and options before reaching a conclusion.
What are the different verb forms of “mull over”?
| Root Verb | mull over |
| Third Person Singular Present | mulls over |
| Present Participle | mulling over |
| Simple Past | mulled over |
| Past Participle | mulled 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.
Example
He is mulling over whether to accept the job offer or not.
Example
They mulled over the proposal for a few days before giving their response.
Example
The idea had been mulled over for months before it was finally approved.
What kind of phrasal verb is “mull over”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“mull over” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
I need to mull over my options.
Example
She mulled over the decision for days.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“mull over” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
I need to mull over my options.
Example
She mulled over the decision for days.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “mull over”?
Good things to know
Does “mull over” have an informal or formal tone?
Mull over is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
