Writing – Casual Expression for Someone Thinking of Something

formalitywriting

In casual writing we often use the colon to express that people are talking. Example:

Tom: hi
Mary: hi

I'm wondering what about if it is Tom thought of something instead of Tom talking? Like is this valid, or is there a better way to express this:

Tom thought: asdasd

Best Answer

The usual answer is:

(thinks) in braces,

or, in some situations you can use an ellipsis, or, you can use italics,
or you can use < pointy braces >. So, here's the "standard" way...

Tom: I love you.
Tim (thinks): Did he just say that?
Tom: I said I love you, dude!
Tim: Well, whoa!
Tom (thinks): But what next??

I think an ellipsis can work well, particularly in a poetic context, and if you're context is good so it's obvious it's a thought.

Tom: I love you
Tom... what have I said?!
Tim: You .. you love me?
Tim... did he just say that?

And so on. Enjoy!

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