English Reference

Phrasal verb

mull over

Definition

phrasal verb. to think about something carefully for a long time before you make a decision.

phrasal verb. to consider a matter deeply or at length. The verb is transitive and typically implies a period of reflection or deliberation before reaching a conclusion.

Examples

“I need to mull over your offer before I say yes.”

“After the meeting, the manager spent the weekend mulling over the different proposals for the new project.”

“The committee spent several weeks mulling over the ethical implications of the new policy before issuing their final report.”

Examples

simple

“I need to mull over your offer before I say yes.”

contextual

“After the meeting, the manager spent the weekend mulling over the different proposals for the new project.”

complex

“The committee spent several weeks mulling over the ethical implications of the new policy before issuing their final report.”

Usage

usually followed by a noun or a clause starting with a question word like 'whether'.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'think about' and 'ponder'; 'mull over' suggests a slow process of weighing options in one's mind.

Pitfall

I need to mull over about the decision.

I need to mull over the decision.

the phrasal verb is transitive and takes the object directly without an extra preposition like 'about'.

Phrasal verb

Particles

over

Separability

optional

Pattern

mull + over + object

Synonyms

think aboutconsiderpondercontemplatedeliberate

Antonyms

decide quicklyignoredismiss

Grammar

Phrasal verbs (introduction)

This entry

Exam level
CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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