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

Oliver Gardner, founder of Rethink Repayment, also welcomed the cap but said the "temporary measure is by no means a solution to the student loans crisis".

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

The Manchester-based organisation Rethink Rebuild, which caters mainly for local Syrians, said they "stand in full solidarity with our Jewish neighbours".

From BBC • Oct. 5, 2025

Exclusive analysis for the BBC by charity Rethink Mental Illness reveals a stark - and widening - inequality between mental and physical healthcare.

From BBC • Aug. 6, 2025

"This is an urgent wake-up call," says Brian Dow, deputy chief executive of Rethink Mental Illness.

From BBC • Aug. 6, 2025

But now, as we drift into summer cookout season, maybe there’s something to Tucci’s suggestion: Rethink the barbecue.

From Salon • May 27, 2025

Related Words

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