10 Ways to Say “Let Me Think”

Need a Moment to Process?

In real conversations—whether you’re answering a question, making a decision, or solving a problem—it’s totally okay to pause and gather your thoughts. Knowing 10 ways to say let me think helps you respond confidently without rushing or feeling pressured. These phrases are perfect for everyday chats, job interviews, classroom discussions, and more.

Common Ways to Say “Let Me Think”

Instead of staying silent or saying “um” repeatedly, use these natural English expressions to buy yourself a few seconds (or minutes!) to think clearly. They’re grouped by tone so you can choose what fits the situation best.

Polite & Thoughtful

1. “Let me think about that for a moment.”
   A calm, respectful way to ask for time—great in professional or serious conversations.
   Example: “That’s an interesting offer. Let me think about that for a moment.”
2. “I need a second to consider that.”
   Honest and clear. Shows you’re taking the question seriously.
   Example: “I need a second to consider that—can I get back to you in a minute?”
3. “Give me a minute to think it over.”
   Slightly more direct but still polite. Often used when a decision is involved.
   Example: “Give me a minute to think it over before I say yes.”
4. “That’s a good question—let me reflect on it.”
   Ideal for thoughtful or complex topics, like in meetings or interviews.
   Example: “That’s a good question—let me reflect on it before I answer.”

Casual & Natural

5. “Hmm, let me see…”
   A relaxed, conversational filler that sounds friendly and engaged.
   Example: “Hmm, let me see… I think we left the keys in the car.”
6. “Just a sec—I’m thinking.”
   Very informal and common among friends or in quick chats.
   Example: “Just a sec—I’m thinking… Was it Tuesday or Wednesday?”
7. “Hold on, I’m trying to remember.”
   Perfect when you’re recalling a name, date, or detail.
   Example: “Hold on, I’m trying to remember her last name…”
8. “Let me get my thoughts together.”
   Used when you need a moment to organize your ideas—common before giving an opinion.
   Example: “Let me get my thoughts together—I want to explain this clearly.”

Professional & Confident

9. “I’d like to take a moment to formulate my response.”
   Formal and polished—ideal for presentations, interviews, or academic settings.
   Example: “I’d like to take a moment to formulate my response to your proposal.”
10. “Allow me a moment to process that.”
    Sophisticated and calm. Shows emotional intelligence and thoughtfulness.
    Example: “That’s a lot to take in. Allow me a moment to process that.”

Real-Life Dialogues

At Work (Professional):

Manager: “Can you lead the client presentation next week?”
You: “That’s a good question—let me reflect on it. I’ll let you know by lunch.”

With a Friend (Casual):

Friend: “Should we order pizza or sushi tonight?”
You: “Hmm, let me see… I’m kinda craving sushi.”

In a Job Interview (Polite):

Interviewer: “Tell me about a time you handled a difficult situation.”
You: “Allow me a moment to process that—I want to give you a clear example.”

Quick Tips: When to Use Which Phrase

• In interviews or meetings: Use polished phrases like “I’d like to take a moment to formulate my response.”
• With friends or family: Go casual with “Just a sec—I’m thinking” or “Hmm, let me see…”
• When you’re overwhelmed: “Allow me a moment to process that” shows self-awareness and maturity.
• Avoid long silences: Even a short phrase like “Let me think…” keeps the conversation flowing naturally.

Remember: Native speakers pause and think all the time! Using these phrases makes you sound fluent—not slow.

Try One Today!

Now that you know 10 ways to say let me think, pick one and use it in your next English conversation. Whether you’re texting, on a call, or in a meeting, giving yourself space to think is a sign of confidence—not confusion.

So go ahead: pause, reflect, and respond with clarity. Happy speaking!