What does thinking mean?
Thinking is the English present participle and gerund of think, but it is also widely used as a noun for the broader activity of using the mind. As a verb, it describes considering an idea, forming an opinion, imagining a possibility, or working through a problem. As a noun, it can refer to thought in general, as in "strategic thinking," or to someone's view, as in "What is your thinking?" The adjective use, seen in phrases such as "a thinking approach," means intelligent, thoughtful, or open to new ideas. Thinking is especially valuable as a way of describing the process behind a conclusion rather than the conclusion alone. It appears naturally in expressions involving critical, lateral, positive, creative, and analytical thought, and can be used in both everyday conversation and academic or professional writing.
To engage in thought or use the mind to consider something; also, in constructions with "of," to imagine or remember something.
"We are thinking of expanding the program next year."
The process of using the mind to consider ideas, form opinions, or reach conclusions; also, an opinion or view about something.
"The problem calls for creative thinking rather than a quick reaction."
Intelligent, thoughtful, or progressive in outlook.
"They sought a more thinking solution to the city's transport problems."
Thinking is more than an idea: it is the active process behind every thought, opinion, and plan.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does thinking come from?
Thinking comes from the English verb think, which descends from Old English þencan, meaning to think, conceive, or consider. The form thinking was formed by adding the present-participle ending -ing, a grammatical form that later became widely used for ongoing activities and gerund constructions. Related words include thought, thoughtful, thoughtless, and thank, all of which reflect the same broad etymological family.
Related word forms
How thinking is actually used
As a verb form, thinking is neutral and very common in both formal and informal English. As a noun, it is usually an uncountable process, although "your thinking" and "what's your thinking?" are natural expressions, especially in British usage. The adjective sense is informal and often implies intelligence, reasonableness, or forward-mindedness.
Easily confused with thinking
Thinking is the process of using the mind, whereas a thought is an individual idea, belief, or conclusion produced by that process.