Translation guide
To think about something carefully, consider it from different angles, or ponder it.
To consider something deeply, often over a period of time.
The most common and neutral way to say 'think carefully' or 'consider well'.
その問題をよく考えてみます。
I'll turn the problem over in my mind.
Formal term for 'deliberate' or 'ponder deeply', often used in serious contexts.
To consider different possibilities or choices before making a decision.
Literally 'think this and that', a natural way to express mulling over various aspects.
どの大学に行くか、あれこれ考えている。
I'm turning over in my mind which university to go to.
To think back on something that happened, often with a sense of contemplation.
The phrase 'turn over in one's mind' does not have a direct Japanese equivalent using 'turn over'. Using ひっくり返す (hikkurikaesu) would be incorrect and confusing.
He turned the proposal over in his mind.
Literally 'to let one's thoughts wander around', implying turning something over from various angles.
彼女は将来について思い巡らした。
She turned over in her mind what the future might hold.
To be lost in thought, often with a nuance of worrying or being unable to stop thinking.
彼は何か考え込んでいるようだ。
He seems to be turning something over in his mind.
To examine or scrutinize options, often used in business or formal decision-making.
その計画を検討しています。
We are turning the plan over in our minds.
Literally 'organize in one's head', used when sorting out thoughts.
言われたことを頭の中で整理している。
I'm turning over what I was told in my mind.
To look back on or reflect upon past events, commonly used for introspection.
自分の人生を振り返ってみた。
I turned my life over in my mind.
To recall and think over past events, similar to 'reminisce' but with a thinking nuance.
あの日のことを思い返している。
I'm turning over in my mind what happened that day.