rethink

American  

[ree-thingk, ree-thingk] / riˈθɪŋk, ˈriˌθɪŋk /

verb (used with or without object)

rethought, rethinking

1. to reconsider, especially profoundly.

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noun

1. the act of reconsidering.

rethink British  

verb

1. to think about (something) again, esp with a view to changing one's tactics or opinions

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noun

1. the act or an instance of thinking again

Other Word Forms

• rethinker
  noun

Etymology

Origin of rethink

First recorded in 1690–1700; re- + think ¹

Explanation

When you rethink, you consider something again, often reaching the opposite conclusion. You'll rethink your decision to go bungee jumping as soon as you're standing at the top of a tall bridge getting ready to jump. You'll have to rethink your usual two A.M. bedtime after you get a new job making donuts at five every morning. A kindergarten teacher might also need to rethink his laid-back teaching style when he's faced with an especially high-energy class. You can also use rethink as a noun: "I need to have a quick rethink about what I'll have for lunch, since the cafeteria is out of French fries."

Example Sentences

During the forced closure, however, the team began to rethink its future.

From Los Angeles Times • May 20, 2026

The executive order directs regulators to rethink what information banks collect from their customers as a safeguard against money laundering.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 20, 2026

Evidence from West Africa is now forcing scientists to rethink that assumption in a dramatic way.

From Science Daily • May 20, 2026

However, earlier this year, the Institute for Fiscal Studies argued that the rules contributed to "dysfunctional policymaking" and needed a "rethink".

From BBC • May 18, 2026

“Look, spring break is next week. I suggest taking some time to regroup and rethink some of Charlie’s educational goals.”

From "Marcus Vega Doesn't Speak Spanish" by Pablo Cartaya

Related Words

• amend
• reassess
• reevaluate
• reexamine
• revise
• rework