# thinking

/ˈθɪŋkɪŋ/ (US) · /θˈɪŋkɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thinking
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. the process of using your mind

noun · CEFR A2

the activity of using your brain to solve problems or understand something.

For teachers: the process of using one's mind to consider or reason about something; often uncountable.

- The project requires a lot of careful thinking before we start.
- Critical thinking is a fundamental skill that allows students to evaluate evidence and form logical conclusions independently.

### 2. opinions or ideas

noun · CEFR B1

a person's ideas or opinions about a particular subject.

For teachers: the ideas, opinions, or judgements of a particular person or group.

- What is the current thinking on how to fix the economy?
- The shift in management's thinking led to a complete overhaul of the company's environmental policies.

### 4. intelligent or rational

adjective · CEFR B2

used to describe a person who uses their mind and thinks deeply.

For teachers: characterised by the use of the intellect; rational or capable of thought.

- She is a thinking person who doesn't just follow the crowd.
- The documentary was designed to appeal to the thinking viewer who enjoys complex social commentary.

## Examples

- I need some time for quiet thinking before I decide.
- The manager asked for our thinking on the new schedule before she made a final decision.
- Current scientific thinking suggests that sleep is essential for memory consolidation, though the exact neurological mechanisms remain a subject of intense debate.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.