"thinking by themselves" vs "thinking for themselves"

Question

"thinking by themselves" vs "thinking for themselves"

Both phrases are correct, but they are used in different contexts. 'Thinking for themselves' implies independent thinking or making decisions without being influenced by others. 'Thinking by themselves' suggests thinking alone or without the presence of others.

Last Updated: March 26, 2024

This phrase is used to describe individuals who are engaging in thought processes without external influence or company.

Examples:

The children were thinking by themselves in the quiet room.
She prefers thinking by herself before discussing ideas with others.
He enjoys thinking by himself in nature.
Students often need time to think by themselves before answering questions.
Some people find it easier to think by themselves rather than in a group.

Alternatives:

thinking alone
thinking in solitude
thinking independently
thinking in isolation
thinking solo

This phrase is used to describe individuals who are capable of forming their own opinions or making choices without being influenced by others.

Examples:

Children should be encouraged to think for themselves.
It's important for students to learn how to think for themselves.
She always thinks for herself and doesn't follow the crowd.
The best leaders are those who can think for themselves.
Employees are valued when they can think for themselves and solve problems independently.

Alternatives:

thinking independently
forming their own opinions
making their own decisions
thinking autonomously
thinking freely

Answer 1

thinking by themselves

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to thinking alone or without the presence of others.

Answer 2

thinking for themselves

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to independent thinking or decision-making.

"thinking by themselves" vs "thinking for themselves"

thinking by themselves

thinking for themselves

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