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A1 verb #8 le plus courant 11 min de lecture

to think

Top 8

At the A1 level, 'to think' is primarily used to express simple opinions and basic mental states. Learners use it to share what they like, what they want, or what they believe to be true in a very direct way. The most common structure is 'I think' followed by a simple sentence. For example, 'I think it is hot' or 'I think she is nice.' At this stage, the focus is on communication rather than complex grammar. Learners should understand that 'think' is a way to tell others their ideas. They also learn the question 'What do you think?' as a standard way to ask for someone's opinion. The past tense 'thought' might be introduced, but the focus remains on the present tense. It is important for A1 learners to realize that 'think' is a very useful word that helps them participate in basic conversations about their feelings and surroundings. They don't need to worry about complex prepositions yet; just using 'I think...' is a great start. This word helps them move from just stating facts to sharing their own perspective, which is a big step in language learning. By using 'think,' they can show they are engaged and have their own thoughts about the world around them.

At the A2 level, learners begin to use 'to think' in more varied ways, including expressing future intentions and using basic prepositions. They start to use 'think about' to describe what is on their mind: 'I am thinking about my family.' This shows they can now distinguish between a general opinion and an ongoing mental process. They also learn to use 'think' with 'that,' although they often omit it: 'I think that the bus is late.' A2 learners are introduced to the idea of negative raising, learning to say 'I don't think...' instead of 'I think... not.' This makes their English sound much more natural. They also start to use 'think' to make suggestions or talk about plans: 'I'm thinking of going to the cinema tonight.' The past tense 'thought' becomes more common as they describe past beliefs or surprises: 'I thought you were in London!' At this level, 'think' becomes a tool for more social interaction, allowing learners to agree or disagree politely. They also begin to recognize common phrases like 'I think so' and 'I don't think so,' which are essential for natural conversation flow. The focus at A2 is on expanding the range of topics they can 'think' about and improving the naturalness of their sentence structures.

At the B1 level, 'to think' is used with much greater flexibility and precision. Learners are expected to use 'think' in a variety of tenses, including the present perfect: 'I have thought about your offer.' They also begin to use more complex phrasal verbs like 'think over,' 'think up,' and 'think back.' B1 learners can use 'think' to speculate about the future or hypothetical situations: 'I was thinking, what if we moved the meeting to Friday?' This shows a higher level of communicative competence. They also start to understand the nuance between 'think of' and 'think about' in different contexts. For example, they can use 'think of' to mean 'to imagine' or 'to have an opinion of.' They are also more comfortable with using 'think' in the middle of sentences to provide commentary: 'It is, I think, the best solution.' At this level, learners are also introduced to the noun form 'thought' in common expressions like 'lost in thought' or 'on second thought.' They can use 'think' to express doubt or uncertainty more effectively, using adverbs to modify the verb: 'I seriously think we should reconsider.' The focus at B1 is on using 'to think' to handle more complex social and professional situations, showing a deeper understanding of how the word functions in different registers.

At the B2 level, 'to think' is used with a high degree of accuracy and nuance. Learners can easily switch between the stative and dynamic uses of the verb without making mistakes. They use 'think' to construct complex arguments and express subtle opinions. They are familiar with a wide range of idioms and phrasal verbs involving 'think,' such as 'think outside the box,' 'think twice,' and 'think better of something.' B2 learners can use 'think' to manage conversations, using it to hedge their statements or to invite others to contribute: 'I'd be interested to know what you think about this.' They also use 'think' in more formal contexts, perhaps replacing it with synonyms like 'consider' or 'evaluate' when appropriate, but knowing exactly when 'think' is still the best choice. They understand the use of 'think' in reported speech and can shift tenses correctly: 'He said he thought it would be a good idea.' At this level, learners also appreciate the rhetorical use of 'think,' such as in rhetorical questions: 'Who do you think you are?' They are also able to use the word to express complex mental states, such as 'thinking aloud' or 'thinking on one's feet.' The focus at B2 is on achieving a near-native level of naturalness and using 'think' as a sophisticated tool for communication and analysis.

At the C1 level, 'to think' is used with complete mastery, including its most subtle and abstract applications. Learners can use the word to discuss philosophical concepts, complex theories, and nuanced emotions. They are fully aware of the stylistic implications of choosing 'think' over its more formal synonyms and use this knowledge to vary their register. C1 learners can use 'think' in highly sophisticated structures, such as 'Little did I think that...' or 'I should think so.' They are also adept at using 'think' to convey irony, sarcasm, or deep reflection. They understand the historical and etymological roots of the word and how these influence its current usage. At this level, 'think' is often used in conjunction with other high-level cognitive verbs to create a rich and detailed picture of mental activity. Learners can analyze the use of 'think' in literature and academic writing, noting how it is used to build perspective and authority. They are also comfortable with the most obscure idioms and can use them correctly in context. The focus at C1 is on using 'to think' with absolute precision, elegance, and a deep understanding of its role in the English language's expressive power. They can use it to articulate the finest shades of meaning and to engage in high-level intellectual discourse.

At the C2 level, the use of 'to think' is indistinguishable from that of an educated native speaker. The learner possesses an intuitive grasp of every nuance, collocation, and idiomatic expression. They can use 'think' to navigate the most complex social, professional, and academic environments with ease. C2 learners can employ 'think' in creative writing to evoke specific moods or to develop deep character studies. They are aware of the word's rhythmic and phonetic qualities and can use it effectively in public speaking or poetry. They can also engage in meta-linguistic discussions about the word itself, exploring its role in cognitive linguistics or philosophy of mind. At this level, 'to think' is not just a verb but a versatile instrument for the most refined expression of human consciousness. The learner can use it to convey the most subtle shifts in thought, the most profound realizations, and the most complex interpersonal dynamics. They are masters of the 'unspoken' elements of the word—the pauses, the intonation, and the context that give 'think' its full meaning. For a C2 learner, 'to think' is a fundamental part of their linguistic identity, used with effortless grace and total command over the language's vast resources.

Entraîne-toi Exemples Notes et astuces

to think en 30 secondes

A foundational verb used to express opinions, beliefs, and the mental process of consideration or reasoning in everyday English communication.
Functions as both a stative verb for opinions and a dynamic verb for the active process of pondering or planning future actions.
Essential for social interaction, allowing speakers to soften statements, invite dialogue, and share internal thoughts with others politely.
Highly versatile with numerous phrasal verbs and idioms that expand its meaning from simple brain activity to complex creative problem-solving.

The verb 'to think' is one of the most fundamental pillars of the English language, serving as the primary vehicle for expressing cognitive activity, personal opinions, and internal deliberation. At its core, 'to think' describes the mental process of using one's brain to form ideas, reason through problems, or reflect on experiences. However, its utility extends far beyond simple brain activity. In daily conversation, it is the most common way to introduce a subjective viewpoint or a belief that is not necessarily presented as an absolute fact. When you say 'I think it will rain,' you are not just describing a mental process; you are signaling a degree of uncertainty and offering a personal prediction. This versatility makes it indispensable for social interaction, as it allows speakers to soften their statements and invite dialogue rather than just stating cold facts.

Cognitive Process: This refers to the active use of the mind to solve a problem or consider a situation. For example, 'Give me a moment, I am thinking.' Here, the focus is on the effort of the brain.
Expressing Opinion: Used to introduce what someone believes to be true. 'I think this movie is great.' It functions as a hedge, making the statement less aggressive.
Intent and Planning: Often used with 'of' or 'about' to indicate future plans. 'I am thinking of moving to London.' This shows a state of consideration rather than a finalized decision.

I need some time to think about your proposal before I give you an answer.

In professional settings, 'to think' is often replaced by more formal synonyms like 'consider' or 'evaluate,' but in the vast majority of human interactions, 'think' remains the dominant choice. It bridges the gap between the conscious mind and the external world. Whether you are pondering the meaning of life or simply deciding what to have for lunch, the verb 'to think' captures that internal movement of the soul. It is also a stative verb when expressing an opinion (I think you are right) and a dynamic verb when describing the act of pondering (I am thinking about you). Understanding this distinction is crucial for mastering English grammar and sounding natural to native speakers.

What do you think about the new policy?

She thinks that we should leave early to avoid the heavy traffic.

Recollection: Sometimes used to mean 'remember.' 'I can't think of his name right now.' This implies a mental search through memory.

Don't just act; you must think before you speak.

They thought the test was very difficult.

Using 'to think' correctly requires an understanding of its various syntactic structures. The most common pattern is 'think + (that) + clause.' In this structure, 'that' is often omitted in casual speech. For example, 'I think (that) it is a good idea.' This is the standard way to express an opinion. Another vital pattern is 'think about + noun/gerund,' which describes the process of contemplation. 'I am thinking about my future' or 'I am thinking about buying a car.' Here, the focus is on the duration of the mental activity. If you use 'think of,' it often implies a sudden idea or a brief mental image, such as 'I just thought of a solution' or 'Think of a number between one and ten.'

Think + That Clause: Used for opinions and beliefs. Example: 'He thinks that the world is flat.' The 'that' is optional but provides clarity in formal writing.
Think About: Used for ongoing consideration or focus. Example: 'I've been thinking about what you said.' This implies a continuous process.
Think Of: Used for opinions or bringing something to mind. Example: 'What do you think of my new shoes?' or 'I can't think of anything to say.'

I think we should go now.

Furthermore, 'think' can be used with an object and an infinitive in more complex structures, though this is less common: 'I thought him to be a kind man.' This is quite formal and usually replaced by 'I thought he was a kind man.' In negative sentences, English speakers usually move the negation to the verb 'think' rather than the following clause. Instead of saying 'I think he is not coming,' it is much more natural to say 'I don't think he is coming.' This is known as negative raising and is a hallmark of natural-sounding English. Mastering these subtle shifts in sentence structure will significantly improve your fluency and make your speech sound more authentic.

We are thinking about going on vacation in July.

Do you think it will snow tomorrow?

Think Back: A phrasal verb meaning to remember or reflect on the past. 'When I think back to my childhood, I feel happy.'

I don't think that is a very good idea.

Who would have thought that he would win the race?

You will hear 'to think' in almost every conceivable context of English life. In movies, it is the go-to word for characters expressing their inner turmoil or making plans. In news broadcasts, reporters use it to attribute opinions to public figures: 'The Prime Minister thinks that the new law will be effective.' In academic lectures, professors might ask students to 'think critically' about a text, encouraging them to look beyond the surface level. It is also a staple of pop music, where lyrics often revolve around what the singer thinks about a loved one or their own life choices. Because it is so common, it often gets shortened or mumbled in fast speech, sometimes sounding like 'I fink' in certain British dialects or 'I th-nk' in rapid American English.

Daily Conversation: Used constantly to share opinions. 'I think we're lost' or 'What do you think of this color?' It acts as a social lubricant.
Workplace Meetings: Used to brainstorm or suggest ideas. 'I'm thinking we should try a different approach.' It sounds less demanding than 'We must.'
Media and News: Used to report on public sentiment or expert opinions. 'Analysts think the market will recover by next year.'

I think I've heard this song before.

In social media, 'think' is ubiquitous in comment sections where users express their views on everything from politics to fashion. Phrases like 'I think it's important to remember...' or 'Does anyone else think...?' are standard ways to start a discussion. In literature, 'to think' is used to provide insight into a character's internal monologue, allowing the reader to see the world through their eyes. It is the bridge between the external action of a story and the internal development of the protagonist. Whether you are listening to a podcast, watching a YouTube tutorial, or chatting with a friend at a café, 'to think' will be one of the most frequent words you encounter, serving as the heartbeat of human expression.

You think you're so smart, don't you?

I'm thinking of a number between one and ten.

Public Speaking: Speakers often use 'I think' to show humility or to indicate that they are speaking from a personal perspective rather than universal truth.

What were you thinking when you did that?

I think I'll just stay home tonight.

One of the most frequent errors learners make with 'to think' involves the use of the continuous form. In English, verbs that describe a state of mind (stative verbs) are generally not used in the -ing form. When 'think' means 'to have an opinion,' it is stative. Therefore, saying 'I am thinking that you are right' is grammatically incorrect; it should be 'I think you are right.' However, when 'think' describes the active process of mental deliberation, it is dynamic and can be used in the -ing form: 'I am thinking about the problem.' Distinguishing between these two uses is vital. Another common mistake is the preposition choice. Learners often say 'think to' when they mean 'think of' or 'think about.' For example, 'I am thinking to go' is incorrect; the correct form is 'I am thinking of going.'

Incorrect Continuous Form: Avoid: 'I am thinking this is a good book.' Correct: 'I think this is a good book.' (Opinion = Stative)
Preposition Errors: Avoid: 'I think at my family.' Correct: 'I think about my family.' 'About' is used for the subject of your thoughts.
Negative Placement: Avoid: 'I think he will not come.' Correct: 'I don't think he will come.' This is much more natural in English.

I don't think that's true (More natural than 'I think that's not true').

Additionally, learners sometimes confuse 'think' with 'believe' or 'feel.' While they are often interchangeable, 'think' is the most neutral and common. 'Believe' is stronger and often relates to convictions or facts, while 'feel' is more emotional. Another area of confusion is the past tense 'thought.' Because it is irregular, some learners try to say 'thinked,' which is incorrect. The spelling of 'thought' (with the 'ough') can also be a challenge. Finally, the phrase 'think of' vs. 'think about' can be tricky. 'Think of' is often used for opinions (What do you think of him?) or sudden ideas, while 'think about' is for longer consideration. Mixing these up won't always stop you from being understood, but using them correctly will make your English sound much more sophisticated.

Are you thinking about what I said?

I thought you were at work today.

Confusing 'Think' and 'Thank': Due to similar pronunciation in some accents, learners sometimes swap these. 'I think you' vs 'I thank you.' Pay attention to the vowel sound.

What do you think of the new teacher?

She thinks highly of her colleagues.

While 'to think' is the most versatile word for mental activity, English offers a rich palette of synonyms that can provide more precision depending on the context. If you are engaged in deep, serious thought, 'ponder' or 'contemplate' might be more appropriate. These words suggest a level of depth and duration that 'think' does not always convey. If you are making a decision, 'consider' is a common professional alternative. For opinions, 'believe' or 'reckon' (informal) can be used. If you are forming a mental image, 'imagine' is the correct choice. Understanding the nuances between these alternatives allows you to express yourself with greater clarity and style, moving beyond the basic vocabulary of a beginner to the nuanced expression of an advanced speaker.

Ponder vs. Think: 'Ponder' implies thinking deeply and carefully about something for a long time. You 'think' about what to eat, but you 'ponder' the mysteries of the universe.
Consider vs. Think: 'Consider' is often used when weighing options or looking at facts to make a decision. It is more formal than 'think about.'
Believe vs. Think: 'Believe' suggests a stronger conviction or a matter of faith/fact. 'I think he's nice' is a casual opinion; 'I believe he is innocent' is a firm stance.

I will consider your application and get back to you.

Other alternatives include 'reflect,' which is used for thinking about the past or one's own character, and 'speculate,' which is used when you are thinking about something without having all the facts. In creative contexts, you might use 'visualize' to describe thinking in pictures. For very quick, almost unconscious thoughts, we might use 'suppose' or 'assume.' Each of these words carries a specific 'flavor' that 'think' lacks. By choosing the right synonym, you can tell your listener not just *that* you are thinking, but *how* you are thinking. This level of detail is what separates a functional speaker from a truly fluent one. Always consider the register (formal vs. informal) and the intensity of the thought process when choosing your words.

She reflected on her many successes over the past year.

Stop contemplating and start doing!

Deem: A very formal word meaning to judge or consider in a specific way. 'The area was deemed unsafe by the authorities.'

I suppose you're right about that.

Let me mull it over for a few days.

How Formal Is It?

Formel

Neutre

Informel

Child friendly

Argot

Le savais-tu ?

The past tense 'thought' comes from the Old English 'thōhte'. The merge of 'thincan' and 'thencan' is why 'think' can mean both 'to have an opinion' and 'to process information'.

Guide de prononciation

UK /θɪŋk/

US /θɪŋk/

Single syllable word; the stress is on the entire word.

Rime avec

pink sink link drink blink wink shrink kink clink brink

Erreurs fréquentes

Pronouncing 'th' as 'f' (fink) or 't' (tink).
Confusing the vowel sound with 'thank'.
Not fully pronouncing the 'k' at the end.
Making the 'th' voiced like in 'the'.
Over-emphasizing the 'g' sound before the 'k'.

Niveau de difficulté

Lecture 1/5

Very easy to recognize in text as it is one of the most common words.

Écriture 2/5

The irregular past tense 'thought' can be tricky to spell.

Expression orale 2/5

The 'th' sound is difficult for many non-native speakers.

Écoute 1/5

Usually clear, though it can be shortened in fast speech.

Quoi apprendre ensuite

Prérequis

mind know say believe good/bad

Apprends ensuite

consider ponder opinion thoughtful decide

Avancé

contemplate speculate deliberate ruminate cogitate

Grammaire à connaître

Stative vs Dynamic Use

Stative: I think (believe) he is nice. Dynamic: I am thinking (pondering) about the problem.

Negative Raising

Correct: I don't think it's raining. (More natural than 'I think it's not raining').

Think + That Clause

I think (that) she is coming. 'That' is optional in informal English.

Think of vs Think about

Think of = Opinion or sudden idea. Think about = Ongoing consideration.

Past Tense Irregularity

The past of think is 'thought', not 'thinked'.

Exemples par niveau

I think it is a good book.

Je pense que c'est un bon livre.

Simple present tense for opinion.

What do you think?

Qu'en penses-tu ?

Standard question for opinion.

I think she is happy.

Je pense qu'elle est heureuse.

Subject + think + clause.

Do you think so?

Le penses-tu ?

Using 'so' to refer to a previous statement.

I don't think it is cold.

Je ne pense pas qu'il fasse froid.

Negative form with 'do not'.

They think the food is good.

Ils pensent que la nourriture est bonne.

Third person plural.

I think I like this color.

Je pense que j'aime cette couleur.

Expressing a personal preference.

He thinks he is late.

Il pense qu'il est en retard.

Third person singular 'thinks'.

I am thinking about my summer holiday.

Je pense à mes vacances d'été.

Present continuous for ongoing thought.

I'm thinking of buying a new car.

Je pense à acheter une nouvelle voiture.

Thinking of + gerund for plans.

I thought you were at home.

Je pensais que tu étais à la maison.

Past tense 'thought' for past belief.

What are you thinking about?

À quoi penses-tu ?

Question about current mental activity.

I don't think he will come to the party.

Je ne pense pas qu'il viendra à la fête.

Negative raising (I don't think...).

She thinks that the test was easy.

Elle pense que le test était facile.

Using 'that' to introduce a clause.

We are thinking of moving to a bigger house.

Nous pensons à déménager dans une plus grande maison.

Present continuous for future intentions.

I think I'll have the chicken, please.

Je pense que je vais prendre le poulet, s'il vous plaît.

Using 'think' to make a decision.

I've been thinking about what you said all day.

J'ai pensé à ce que tu as dit toute la journée.

Present perfect continuous for long-term thought.

I need to think it over before I decide.

Je dois y réfléchir avant de décider.

Phrasal verb 'think over' meaning to consider.

Can you think of a better way to do this?

Peux-tu imaginer une meilleure façon de faire cela ?

Think of meaning to invent or suggest.

I thought as much when I saw the news.

Je m'en doutais en voyant les nouvelles.

Idiomatic use of 'thought as much'.

She was thinking back to her time in Paris.

Elle repensait à son séjour à Paris.

Phrasal verb 'think back' meaning to remember.

I seriously think we should call the police.

Je pense sérieusement que nous devrions appeler la police.

Using an adverb to modify 'think'.

Who would have thought it would be so hard?

Qui aurait cru que ce serait si difficile ?

Modal perfect with 'thought' for surprise.

I'm thinking up a new story for my blog.

J'imagine une nouvelle histoire pour mon blog.

Phrasal verb 'think up' meaning to invent.

You should think twice before quitting your job.

Tu devrais y réfléchir à deux fois avant de démissionner.

Idiom 'think twice' meaning to be cautious.

We need someone who can think outside the box.

Nous avons besoin de quelqu'un qui peut sortir des sentiers battus.

Idiom 'think outside the box' for creative thinking.

I thought better of it and decided to stay home.

J'y ai réfléchi et j'ai décidé de rester à la maison.

Idiom 'think better of' meaning to change one's mind.

He's very good at thinking on his feet.

Il est très doué pour réagir au quart de tour.

Idiom 'think on one's feet' for quick thinking.

I'll think of you while I'm away.

Je penserai à toi pendant mon absence.

Using 'think of' for affection/memory.

It is generally thought that the economy will improve.

On pense généralement que l'économie va s'améliorer.

Passive voice 'It is thought that...'.

I don't think much of his latest movie.

Je n'ai pas une grande opinion de son dernier film.

Idiom 'think much of' for low opinion.

Come to think of it, I did see him yesterday.

À bien y réfléchir, je l'ai vu hier.

Phrase 'Come to think of it' for sudden recall.

Little did I think that my life would change so much.

J'étais loin de me douter que ma vie changerait autant.

Inversion for emphasis with 'Little did I think'.

I should think that you'd be exhausted after that trip.

J'imagine que tu dois être épuisé après ce voyage.

Using 'should think' for polite assumption.

He was lost in thought and didn't hear me enter.

Il était perdu dans ses pensées et ne m'a pas entendu entrer.

Idiom 'lost in thought'.

The proposal was thought to be too risky by the board.

Le conseil d'administration a estimé que la proposition était trop risquée.

Passive structure with infinitive.

I'm just thinking aloud here, but what if we tried this?

Je réfléchis tout haut, mais et si nous essayions ceci ?

Idiom 'thinking aloud'.

She has a very high way of thinking about ethics.

Elle a une vision très élevée de l'éthique.

Using 'thinking' as a noun/gerund for philosophy.

I wouldn't think of asking for more money.

Je n'envisagerais même pas de demander plus d'argent.

Using 'wouldn't think of' for strong refusal.

To think that we almost missed the flight!

Dire que nous avons failli rater le vol !

Exclamatory 'To think that...' for surprise.

The sheer audacity of the plan is enough to make one think.

L'audace même du plan suffit à faire réfléchir.

Using 'think' as an intransitive verb for reflection.

One might think that such a simple idea would have occurred to them.

On pourrait penser qu'une idée aussi simple leur serait venue à l'esprit.

Formal 'One might think' for subtle criticism.

The philosophical implications are, I think, quite profound.

Les implications philosophiques sont, je pense, assez profondes.

Using 'I think' as a parenthetical comment.

He is widely thought to be the greatest living poet.

Il est largement considéré comme le plus grand poète vivant.

Passive with 'widely thought' for reputation.

I can't think but that he is hiding something.

Je ne peux m'empêcher de penser qu'il cache quelque chose.

Archaic/Formal 'can't think but that'.

The very thought of it makes me shudder.

La seule pensée de cela me fait frissonner.

Using 'thought' as a noun for a mental image.

Think not that I have come to destroy the law.

Ne pensez pas que je suis venu pour détruire la loi.

Archaic imperative 'Think not'.

His thinking on the matter has evolved over the years.

Sa réflexion sur le sujet a évolué au fil des ans.

Using 'thinking' as a noun for a set of ideas.

Collocations courantes

think clearly

think deeply

think highly of

think twice

think long and hard

think ahead

think back

think positive

think aloud

think for yourself

Phrases Courantes

I think so

I don't think so

What do you think?

Think about it

Come to think of it

To think that...

I thought as much

Think nothing of it

Think big

Just think

Souvent confondu avec

to think vs thank

Similar sound but completely different meaning. 'Think' is mental; 'thank' is for gratitude.

to think vs thing

Similar spelling but 'thing' is a noun for an object, while 'think' is a verb for an action.

to think vs thought

Learners often forget that 'thought' is both the past tense of 'think' and a noun.

Expressions idiomatiques

"think outside the box"

To think in a creative and unconventional way, moving away from traditional methods. Often used in business.

We need to think outside the box to solve this marketing problem.

professional

"think twice"

To consider something very carefully before doing it, usually because it might be dangerous or have bad results.

I'd think twice before buying a used car from that dealer.

neutral

"think on your feet"

To be able to think and react quickly and effectively without prior preparation. A valuable skill in interviews.

The politician was able to think on his feet during the debate.

neutral

"think the world of someone"

To have a very high opinion of someone; to love or admire someone very much.

She thinks the world of her grandfather.

informal

"think better of something"

To decide not to do something after thinking more about it and realizing it might be a mistake.

He was going to complain, but he thought better of it.

neutral

"think straight"

To think clearly and logically, often used in the negative when someone is stressed or confused.

I'm so tired I can't even think straight.

informal

"great minds think alike"

A humorous way to say that you and someone else have the same idea at the same time.

You bought the same wine as me! Great minds think alike.

informal

"think fit"

To decide that something is appropriate or necessary to do. Often used in formal contexts.

You may spend the money as you think fit.

formal

"think a lot of yourself"

To have a very high opinion of your own importance or abilities; to be conceited.

He really thinks a lot of himself, doesn't he?

informal

"think much of something"

Usually used in the negative to mean that you do not have a good opinion of something.

I don't think much of the new manager.

neutral

Facile à confondre

to think vs believe

Both express opinions.

Believe is stronger and often relates to faith or facts. Think is more casual and subjective.

I think it's nice, but I believe it's the right thing to do.

to think vs feel

Both express internal states.

Feel is more emotional or based on intuition. Think is more cognitive and based on reason.

I feel sad, but I think I should be happy.

to think vs guess

Used for opinions in US English.

Guess implies less certainty than think. It's more of a hunch.

I guess he's coming, but I think he might be late.

to think vs suppose

Used for opinions and assumptions.

Suppose is often used when you accept something is true but aren't 100% sure.

I suppose you're right, but I still think we should check.

to think vs consider

Both involve mental processing.

Consider is more formal and implies a deliberate weighing of options.

I am thinking about it, but I need to consider the costs.

Structures de phrases

I think + adjective

I think it's good.

I think + sentence

I think he is happy.

I'm thinking of + -ing

I'm thinking of going home.

I don't think + sentence

I don't think she knows.

I've been thinking about + noun

I've been thinking about you.

Think + over + object

Think it over carefully.

It is thought that + sentence

It is thought that he is rich.

Little did I think that + sentence

Little did I think that I would win.

Famille de mots

Noms

Verbes

Adjectifs

Apparenté

Comment l'utiliser

frequency

Extremely high; one of the top 100 most used words in English.

Erreurs courantes

I am thinking that it is good. → I think it is good.
When expressing an opinion, 'think' is a stative verb and should not be used in the continuous (-ing) form.
I think to go to the park. → I am thinking of going to the park.
We use 'think of' or 'think about' followed by a gerund (-ing) to express intentions, not an infinitive.
I think he not like me. → I don't think he likes me.
In English, we usually negate the verb 'think' rather than the verb in the following clause.
I thinked about it yesterday. → I thought about it yesterday.
'Think' is an irregular verb. The past tense is 'thought', not 'thinked'.
What do you think about my new hair? → What do you think of my new hair?
While 'about' is sometimes used, 'of' is the standard preposition for asking for a quick opinion on an object or appearance.

Astuces

Avoid 'I am thinking that'

Always use 'I think that' for opinions. The continuous form is for the act of pondering, not the belief itself.

Use 'I think' to be polite

Adding 'I think' to your sentences makes you sound less bossy. 'I think we should go' is nicer than 'We should go'.

Learn 'Thought'

Remember that 'thought' is the past tense. Practice saying 'I thought' to describe things you believed in the past.

Vary your words

In writing, don't use 'think' in every sentence. Try 'believe', 'consider', or 'suggest' to make your writing more interesting.

Listen for 'that'

Native speakers often skip the word 'that' after 'think'. 'I think he's nice' is the same as 'I think that he's nice'.

Think twice

Use this phrase when you want to warn someone to be careful. It's a very common and useful idiom.

The 'th' sound

Don't let 'think' sound like 'sink'. Keep your tongue between your teeth for the 'th' sound.

Think about vs Think of

Use 'think about' for long thoughts and 'think of' for quick ideas or opinions. This is a small but important difference.

Ask 'What do you think?'

This is the best way to show you care about someone else's opinion and keep a conversation moving.

Think = Brain work

Associate 'think' with the physical act of your brain working. It helps you remember the meaning.

Mémorise-le

Moyen mnémotechnique

Think of the 'ink' in 'think'. Just as ink puts thoughts on paper, your brain 'thinks' to create those thoughts.

Association visuelle

Imagine a lightbulb turning on above someone's head. That light represents the moment they 'think' of an idea.

Word Web

Mind Brain Idea Opinion Consider Believe Reason Reflect

Défi

Try to use 'think' in three different ways today: once for an opinion, once for a plan, and once to ask someone else's view.

Origine du mot

Derived from the Old English 'thincan' (to seem) and 'thencan' (to conceive in the mind). These two separate verbs eventually merged into the single modern English verb 'think'.

Sens originel : To cause to appear to oneself; to conceive or consider.

Germanic

Contexte culturel

Be aware that in some cultures, stating 'I think' too directly might be seen as overly assertive; however, in English, it is generally the standard way to be polite.

Using 'I think' frequently makes you sound more polite and less dogmatic in conversation.

Cogito, ergo sum (I think, therefore I am) - René Descartes The Thinker - Sculpture by Auguste Rodin Think Different - Apple Inc. marketing slogan

Pratique dans la vie réelle

Contextes réels

Expressing an opinion

I think that...
What do you think of...?
I don't think so.
Personally, I think...

Planning or considering

I'm thinking about...
I'm thinking of...
Let me think about it.
I'll think it over.

Remembering

I can't think of the name.
Think back to when...
I just thought of something.
Come to think of it...

Problem solving

Think outside the box.
Think on your feet.
Think it through.
Think of a solution.

Polite disagreement

I don't think that's right.
I think you might be mistaken.
I see what you mean, but I think...
I'm not sure I think the same.

Amorces de conversation

"What do you think about the weather today?"

"I'm thinking of starting a new hobby. Do you have any ideas?"

"Do you think it's better to live in the city or the country?"

"What do you think is the most important quality in a friend?"

"I was thinking about that movie we saw. What did you think of the ending?"

Sujets d'écriture

Write about a time you had to think very hard to solve a difficult problem.

What do you think your life will look like in five years? Describe your thoughts.

Think back to your favorite childhood memory. Why does it make you happy?

Do you think technology makes our lives better or worse? Explain your thinking.

I am thinking about my goals for this month. Here is what I want to achieve...

Questions fréquentes

10 questions

Generally, no. When expressing an opinion, use the simple present: 'I think that...' Using the continuous form 'I am thinking that' sounds unnatural to native speakers because opinions are considered states, not ongoing actions.

'Think of' is often used for opinions (What do you think of this?) or sudden ideas (I just thought of a plan). 'Think about' is used for more extended periods of concentration or consideration (I'm thinking about my future).

It is both! 'Thought' is the past tense and past participle of the verb 'think' (I thought about it). It is also a noun meaning an idea or the act of thinking (That is a nice thought).

It is a voiceless 'th'. Place the tip of your tongue between your front teeth and blow air out without using your vocal cords. It should sound like a soft hiss, not a 'd' or 't' sound.

'I don't think so' is the standard, natural way to disagree tentatively. 'I think not' is very formal, old-fashioned, or used for dramatic effect. In everyday English, always use 'I don't think so'.

It means to think creatively and try to find new, non-traditional solutions to a problem. It's a very common idiom in business and education to encourage innovation.

Yes, informally. You can say 'I'll have a think about it.' This means 'I will spend some time thinking about it.' It is more common in British English than American English.

There isn't one perfect opposite, but 'ignore' (to not think about something on purpose) or 'forget' (to stop thinking about something) are often used as opposites in specific contexts.

Yes, in the present tense. 'I think', 'you think', 'we think', 'they think', but 'he thinks', 'she thinks', and 'it thinks'. This is the standard third-person singular 's' in English.

It means you have a very good opinion of them and you respect or admire them. For example, 'My teacher thinks highly of my writing' means the teacher is impressed by the writing.