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Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak quote

Justyna Jupowicz-Kozak

CEO of Professional Science Editing for Scientists @ prosciediting.com

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Think carefully

Grammar usage guide and real-world examples

USAGE SUMMARY

'think carefully' is correct and usable in written English
You can use it when you want to emphasize the need for consideration and thoughtful reflection before making a decision or taking action. Example: "If you want to make the right choice, think carefully before deciding."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Think carefully about specialization.

Think carefully about this.

News & Media

The Guardian

But think carefully about color.

News & Media

The New York Times

Let's think carefully about this.

Think carefully about the mix.

Think carefully about your decision.

News & Media

The Guardian

"BEFORE abandoning, think carefully about your actions.

News & Media

The Economist

"Trust Your Gut or Think Carefully?

Parents should think carefully about their role.

Think carefully about where to stay.

I'll never think carefully about anything again.

Show more...

Expert writing Tips

✓ Best practice

When faced with significant decisions, "think carefully" to ensure you've considered all angles and potential consequences. Rushing can lead to oversights.

⚠ Common error

Avoid using "think carefully" as a generic instruction. Instead, specify what to think carefully about to provide more actionable guidance. For example, instead of just saying "Think carefully", say "Think carefully about the potential risks involved."

Antonio Rotolo, PhD - Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Antonio Rotolo, PhD

Digital Humanist | Computational Linguist | CEO @Ludwig.guru

Linguistic Context

The phrase "think carefully" primarily functions as an imperative, urging the listener or reader to engage in thorough consideration. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically sound and suitable for use in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

✓ Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Wiki

30%

Academia

15%

⚠ Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "think carefully" is a common and grammatically sound imperative used to advise thoughtful consideration before making decisions. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and usable in written English. With a neutral register, it appears frequently in news, media, and wiki sources. When using the phrase, it's best to specify the object of consideration to provide actionable guidance. Remember, while decisiveness has its place, careful thought is crucial for navigating complex situations and avoiding potential pitfalls.

FAQs

How can I use "think carefully" in a sentence?

You can use "think carefully" to advise someone to consider something thoroughly before making a decision. For example, "Before you invest your money, "think carefully" about the risks involved."

What are some alternatives to saying "think carefully"?

Alternatives include "consider thoughtfully", "reflect deeply", or "give careful thought". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it ever inappropriate to use the phrase "think carefully"?

While generally appropriate, "think carefully" might sound condescending if used towards someone who is already known to be meticulous. Consider the recipient and the situation.

What's the difference between "think carefully" and "act decisively"?

"Think carefully" emphasizes deliberation and consideration, while "act decisively" stresses prompt and firm action. They represent opposite approaches to a situation; one prioritizes planning, the other, execution.

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Real-world application tested

Most frequent sentences: