think on it
In Appalachian and Southern speech, "think on it" means to consider or reflect on something. It’s a dialect form where "on" is used instead of "about."
Hillbilly Dude Says...
If I ain't answerin' right off - I'll 'think on it' a lil bit. Mighy even 'think on 'at.' It's still in use in the hills. Pronunciation
[THINK on-it]
Meaning & Usage
- Consider, reflect (verb phrase)
Mae:
You takin’ that job offer?
You takin’ that job offer?
Earl:
I’ll think on it overnight.
I’ll think on it overnight.- Pause before deciding (verb phrase)
Mae:
That truck’s a deal.
That truck’s a deal.
Earl:
Maybe so, but let me think on it some.
Maybe so, but let me think on it some.other spellings: think about it, ponder it, consider it, study on it, mull over, and ``reflect on``
★ "Think on it" is plainspoken and flexible. It’s used when folks want time to decide, often said in a measured or cautious tone. ★
Origin
From older English usage where "on" was a common preposition after "think." Appalachian and Southern speech preserved it while other dialects shifted to "about."
Notes
Still heard across Appalachia and the South. Sometimes said as "study on it," which carries the same meaning of reflecting before acting.
Say It Like a Southerner
Say it steady: "think on it." Stress falls on "think."