- To think carefully and deeply about something for a period of time before making a decision.
Explanation
Origin
- Mull likely comes from Middle English mullen or mollen, meaning 'to grind into dust' or 'to ponder'.
- The connection might be the idea of mentally 'grinding down' or breaking down a problem into smaller parts to examine it thoroughly.
- It implies a slow, considered process, like mulling wine or cider with spices (heating it slowly to infuse flavours).
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Let me noodle on that. (To think casually or creatively about something)
- I'll kick that around. (Consider it, perhaps bouncing ideas off others)
- Gotta wrap my head around it. (Need time to understand it fully before deciding)
More Formal:
- I need to deliberate on this.
- Allow me some time for consideration.
Situational Appropriateness
- Generally acceptable in both informal and professional settings. It sounds slightly more considered or 'older' than just think it over.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Fairly straightforward. The meaning relates clearly to thinking.
Examples
- That's an interesting proposal. Let me mull it over for a day or two.
- Don't give me an answer now; mull it over first.
- She's still mulling over the job offer.
Dialogue
Alex: So, are you going to invest in the startup?
Maria: I'm not sure yet. It's a big decision. I need some time to mull it over.
Alex: Understandable. Just let me know by Friday if possible.
Social Media Examples
- Forum Post: Received two job offers with different pros/cons. Going to mull it over this weekend. Any advice?
- Tweet: Big life changes potentially coming... need to mull it over. 🤔 #decisions #life
- Email Excerpt: ...Thanks for the detailed proposal. I'll need to mull it over with the team and get back to you.
Response Patterns
- Okay, take your time.
- Sure, let me know what you decide.
- Don't take too long! (If time is a factor)
- Sounds good.
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After someone says they need to mull it over:
- The asker might inquire about the timeline: Okay, when do you think you'll have an answer?
- Or offer more information: Let me know if you have any questions while you're thinking about it.
- The person mulling it over will eventually communicate their decision.
Conversation Starter
- No. Usually a response to a proposal, question, or decision point.
Intonation
- Stress usually falls on mull and over. MULL it Over.
- The tone is thoughtful, perhaps slightly slow or deliberate.
Generation Differences
- Understood by most, but perhaps slightly more common among older generations (30+). Younger people might just say think about it or sleep on it.
Regional Variations
- Common in most English-speaking regions.