# chew over

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/chew-over
Updated: 2026-08-27

## Senses

### 1. to think deeply

phrasal verb · CEFR C1 · Informal

to think about an idea or a problem for a long time before you decide what to do.

For teachers: to ponder or deliberate over a matter; to reflect on something at length before reaching a conclusion.

- I need a few days to chew over your proposal before I give you an answer.
- The board of directors spent the entire afternoon chewing over the implications of the merger before calling for a final vote.

Usage: This phrasal verb is transitive and can be separated by the object, though it is more commonly kept together.

Teaching tip: While 'chew' is a physical action, this phrasal verb is almost always used figuratively for mental processing.

## Examples

- I need some time to chew over your offer.
- The committee spent the entire afternoon chewing over the new budget proposal before voting.
- While the board members chewed over the implications of the merger, the CEO prepared a secondary strategy to address potential regulatory hurdles.

## Usage notes

- Teaching tip: anchor this to the physical metaphor of chewing food slowly to digest it; this helps students remember that the process is slow and thorough.

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