mull over — consider carefully (especially before making a decision)
phrasal verbC1IELTS 7+neutraloccasional
To think about something deeply and for some time, especially when you need to make an important decision.
Say it like a native
Textbook I require additional time to deliberate upon the proposal.
Native I need a bit more time to mull it over.
'Mull over' is the natural verb for thinking something through; 'deliberate upon' is formal.
Pattern: mull over + noun/pronoun
In use
- She needed a few days to mull over the university's offer before making her final decision.work
- If I were offered a position abroad, I would definitely mull over the opportunity rather than accepting it immediately, because such a decision could impact my whole life.IELTS speaking
Common mistake
✗ I need to mull about it.
✓ I need to mull it over.
'Mull OVER' something (or 'mull it over') — not 'mull about'.
Common collocations
mull over + decision— it, the offer, your options, things
Don't confuse it
'Mull over' is stronger and more deliberate than 'think about', and is not used for everyday, minor choices. It suggests taking your time to weigh options.