When you think, you use your brain to have ideas or to understand something. For example, you think about what you want to eat for dinner. Or, you might think about a problem to find a solution. It's like talking to yourself inside your head to figure things out or remember things. So, to think means to use your mind.
When you think, you use your brain to form ideas, make decisions, or understand things. It's like having a conversation with yourself inside your head.
For example, if someone asks you, "What do you think about the new movie?" they want to know your opinion or your ideas about it.
You might also think about what you need to do tomorrow, or try to solve a problem by thinking through different solutions.
It's a very common verb we use when we talk about mental processes, planning, or reflecting on something.
At the CEFR C2 level, understanding 'to think' involves recognizing its profound versatility and the subtle nuances it conveys in advanced contexts. It extends beyond simple cognition to encompass complex intellectual processes like critical analysis, profound reflection, abstract conceptualization, and the formation of intricate arguments.
A C2 speaker would grasp how 'to think' is used in philosophical discourse, scientific inquiry, and artistic expression, where it often implies a deep engagement with ideas, theories, or creative problems. They would also discern its role in expressing sophisticated opinions, making nuanced judgments, and engaging in strategic planning.
The C2 comprehension includes identifying idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs that incorporate 'think' and understanding their precise implications in various communicative situations. Ultimately, at this level, 'to think' is not just about mental activity, but about navigating and contributing to highly abstract and intellectually demanding environments.
to think in 30 Seconds
- use your mind
- consider ideas
- form opinions
§ Everyday Conversations
The verb "to think" is incredibly common in daily interactions. We use it constantly to express our thoughts, opinions, and plans. You'll hear it in casual chats with friends, family discussions, and even when ordering food.
I think I'll have the pasta tonight.
What do you think about the new movie?
§ At School
In an educational setting, "to think" is fundamental. Teachers use it to encourage critical thinking, students use it to formulate answers, and everyone uses it to discuss ideas and concepts. It's a key part of learning and problem-solving.
Please think about the answer before you speak.
I think the capital of France is Paris.
§ At Work
In a professional environment, "to think" is essential for collaboration, decision-making, and strategizing. You'll hear it in meetings, during brainstorming sessions, and when colleagues are discussing projects or solutions.
We need to think of a new marketing strategy.
I think this proposal has strong potential.
§ In the News
News reports and discussions often involve people expressing their thoughts or the public's perception. Journalists, politicians, and experts frequently use "to think" to convey analysis, opinions, and predictions.
- Journalistic Reporting
- News anchors or reporters might say what experts think about a situation.
Many people think the economy will improve next year.
- Political Commentary
- Politicians or analysts might share what they think about new policies or global events.
The president thinks this new law will be beneficial.
§ Common Phrases with "Think"
The versatility of "to think" is also evident in many idiomatic expressions and common phrases. Understanding these can help you better grasp the nuances of the word.
- Think about it: Consider something carefully.
- Think twice: Consider something very carefully before acting.
- Think aloud: Express thoughts as they occur, often without much prior consideration.
- Think positive: To have an optimistic outlook.
- Think big: To have ambitious ideas or plans.
I need to think about it before I give you an answer.
You should always think twice before making a big purchase.
Examples by Level
I need to think about your offer.
Tengo que pensar en tu oferta.
Using 'think about' for considering something.
She thinks it's a good idea.
Ella cree que es una buena idea.
Using 'think' to express an opinion or belief.
Do you think it will rain tomorrow?
¿Crees que lloverá mañana?
Using 'think' to ask for an opinion or prediction.
He doesn't think before he speaks.
Él no piensa antes de hablar.
Using 'think before' to consider consequences.
We think we can finish the work today.
Creemos que podemos terminar el trabajo hoy.
Using 'think' to express expectation or possibility.
What do you think of this book?
¿Qué piensas de este libro?
Using 'think of' to ask for an opinion about something.
I think I left my keys at home.
Creo que dejé mis llaves en casa.
Using 'think' to express a memory or realization.
Let me think for a moment.
Déjame pensar por un momento.
Using 'think for a moment' to indicate a pause for consideration.
The sheer complexity of the quantum realm forced him to think in entirely new paradigms, challenging his ingrained classical assumptions.
Quantum dünyasının saf karmaşıklığı, onu tamamen yeni paradigmalarla düşünmeye zorladı ve yerleşik klasik varsayımlarını sorgulattı.
Here, 'think' is used with a prepositional phrase ('in entirely new paradigms') to describe the manner of thought. The past tense 'forced' sets the context.
She had to think quickly and strategically, synthesizing disparate pieces of information to formulate a coherent and actionable response to the unfolding crisis.
Hızla ve stratejik olarak düşünmek, dağınık bilgi parçalarını sentezleyerek gelişen krize tutarlı ve uygulanabilir bir yanıt formüle etmek zorundaydı.
'Think' is followed by adverbs ('quickly and strategically') modifying the verb. The infinitive 'to formulate' indicates the purpose of her thinking.
To think that such a seemingly innocuous decision could cascade into a geopolitical catastrophe of this magnitude is both sobering and terrifying.
Böyle görünüşte zararsız bir kararın bu büyüklükte jeopolitik bir felakete dönüşebileceğini düşünmek hem düşündürücü hem de ürkütücü.
This sentence uses the 'To think that...' construction, which expresses surprise or disbelief at a fact or situation. 'Cascade into' is a more advanced verb choice.
His philosophical discourse compelled us to think critically about the very foundations of our societal structures, prompting a profound re-evaluation of our values.
Felsefi söylemi, bizi toplumsal yapılarımızın temelleri hakkında eleştirel düşünmeye zorladı ve değerlerimizi derinlemesine yeniden değerlendirmeye teşvik etti.
'Compelled us to think' indicates a forceful encouragement to engage in thought. 'Critically' is an adverb specifying the quality of thinking.
One must constantly think several steps ahead in a game of chess, anticipating not only the opponent's immediate moves but also their long-term strategic objectives.
Satrançta sürekli olarak birkaç adım ötesini düşünmek gerekir; sadece rakibin anlık hamlelerini değil, aynı zamanda uzun vadeli stratejik hedeflerini de tahmin etmek.
The modal verb 'must' indicates necessity. 'Several steps ahead' is an idiomatic phrase related to forward-thinking. The use of 'anticipating' adds detail to the act of thinking.
She paused, allowing the implications of his audacious proposal to fully permeate her consciousness, needing time to think through every potential ramification.
Durdu, cüretkar önerisinin tüm çağrışımlarının bilincine tam olarak nüfuz etmesine izin verdi, her potansiyel sonucunu derinlemesine düşünmek için zamana ihtiyacı vardı.
'Think through' is a phrasal verb meaning to consider carefully. The present participle 'needing' provides an explanation for her pause.
The algorithm was designed to think like a human, albeit with vastly superior processing power, enabling it to identify intricate patterns imperceptible to the human eye.
Algoritma, insan gibi düşünmek üzere tasarlandı, ancak çok üstün işlem gücüyle, insan gözüyle algılanamayan karmaşık desenleri tanımlamasını sağladı.
'Think like a human' uses 'like' for comparison. 'Albeit' introduces a concessive clause, indicating a contrast. The infinitive 'to identify' shows the purpose of the design.
It is incumbent upon us to think innovatively, transcending conventional approaches to address the multifaceted challenges confronting global sustainability.
Küresel sürdürülebilirliğin karşı karşıya olduğu çok yönlü zorlukları ele almak için yenilikçi düşünmek, geleneksel yaklaşımları aşmak bize düşüyor.
'It is incumbent upon us to think' is a formal construction meaning it is our duty or responsibility to think. 'Innovatively' is an adverb describing the manner of thinking.
Idioms & Expressions
"Think outside the box"
To think creatively and unconventionally.
We need to think outside the box to solve this complex problem.
neutral"Think on your feet"
To think and react quickly, especially in an unexpected situation.
During the debate, she had to think on her feet to answer the challenging questions.
neutral"Think twice"
To consider something carefully before making a decision or taking action.
You should think twice before quitting your job without a backup plan.
neutral"Think big"
To have ambitious ideas or goals.
If you want to achieve great things, you have to think big.
neutral"Think better of it"
To change one's mind after reconsidering, usually deciding not to do something.
I was going to complain, but I thought better of it and kept quiet.
neutral"Think nothing of it"
Used to say that something was not a problem or inconvenience.
Thanks for your help! Oh, think nothing of it, I was happy to assist.
neutral"Think aloud"
To speak one's thoughts as they occur.
As she tried to solve the puzzle, she started to think aloud.
neutral"Think straight"
To be able to think clearly and logically.
I'm so tired, I can't even think straight right now.
neutral"Think up (something)"
To invent or devise something, often a plan or idea.
She had to think up a good excuse for being late.
neutral"Think of (someone/something)"
To remember or call to mind someone or something.
I was just thinking of you the other day.
neutralMemorize It
Mnemonic
Imagine a lightbulb above your head, flickering as you 'think' of new ideas. 'Think' and 'light' share a short 'i' sound, and the lightbulb is a common symbol for thought.
Visual Association
Picture a famous thinker, like Albert Einstein, with a thought bubble above his head, filled with complex equations. This vividly connects the act of 'thinking' with a recognizable image of intellectual activity.
Word Web
Challenge
Describe three things you 'think' about before you go to sleep. Use the word 'think' in each description.
Practice in Real Life
Real-World Contexts
When I need to make a decision, I usually like to think about all the options first.
- think about it
- think clearly
- take time to think
Before I answer a difficult question, I always take a moment to think.
- think carefully
- stop and think
- think before you speak
I often think about my plans for the weekend on Friday afternoon.
- think about the future
- think ahead
- what do you think?
It's good to think positively, even when things are challenging.
- think positive
- think big
- think different
I like to think of new ideas for my projects.
- think of an idea
- think creatively
- think outside the box
Conversation Starters
"What do you like to think about when you're alone?"
"Do you think it's important to think before you act?"
"What's something you often think about during the day?"
"Do you find it easy or difficult to think clearly when you're stressed?"
"What kind of things make you stop and think?"
Journal Prompts
Describe a time you had to think very carefully about a decision. What was the decision and what was the outcome?
Write about a new idea you've had recently. What made you think of it?
What are some things you like to think about when you're trying to relax?
Think about a goal you have. What steps do you need to take to achieve it?
Reflect on a time when thinking positively helped you overcome a challenge.
Test Yourself 78 questions
Write a short sentence about something you like to think about.
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Sample answer
I like to think about my friends.
Complete the sentence: 'I need to think about...'
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Sample answer
I need to think about my homework.
Write two words that describe how you feel when you think about a happy memory.
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Sample answer
Happy, good.
What does the person like to think about?
Read this passage:
I like to think about my dog. He is a small dog. He likes to play. I think he is very cute.
What does the person like to think about?
The passage states, 'I like to think about my dog.'
The passage states, 'I like to think about my dog.'
What does the person need to do?
Read this passage:
My teacher asked me to think about the answer. I need to use my mind. It is a hard question.
What does the person need to do?
The passage says, 'My teacher asked me to think about the answer.'
The passage says, 'My teacher asked me to think about the answer.'
How does thinking about family make the person feel?
Read this passage:
I often think about my family. They live far away. I miss them. Thinking about them makes me happy.
How does thinking about family make the person feel?
The passage says, 'Thinking about them makes me happy.'
The passage says, 'Thinking about them makes me happy.'
Consider the meaning of 'think'.
Listen for the question about future weather.
Focus on the type of thoughts she likes.
Read this aloud:
I think this is a good idea.
Focus: think, idea
You said:
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Read this aloud:
What do you think about the movie?
Focus: what, think, movie
You said:
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Read this aloud:
He needs to think before he speaks.
Focus: needs, think, speaks
You said:
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Write three sentences about something you often think about before going to sleep. Use the word 'think' at least once.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Before I go to sleep, I often think about what I need to do tomorrow. Sometimes I think about my friends. I also think about what I will eat for breakfast.
Imagine you are planning a weekend trip. Write three sentences explaining what you need to think about to prepare for it.
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Sample answer
I need to think about where I want to go for my weekend trip. I also have to think about what clothes to pack. It's important to think about the budget too.
Complete the following sentence in your own words: 'When I have a difficult problem, I usually think about...' Write two more sentences about how you try to solve it.
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Sample answer
When I have a difficult problem, I usually think about all the possible solutions. I try to talk to a friend about it. Sometimes, I also think about what I did last time.
What did Maria start to think about after getting her new bicycle?
Read this passage:
Maria was very happy today. She got a new bicycle for her birthday. She started to think about where she would ride it first. She wanted to go to the park with her friends.
What did Maria start to think about after getting her new bicycle?
The passage states, 'She started to think about where she would ride it first.'
The passage states, 'She started to think about where she would ride it first.'
What did Tom think about when he realized he had a big test?
Read this passage:
Tom had a big test tomorrow. He knew he needed to study hard. He started to think about all the information he had to remember. He decided to make some flashcards to help him.
What did Tom think about when he realized he had a big test?
The passage says, 'He started to think about all the information he had to remember.'
The passage says, 'He started to think about all the information he had to remember.'
What did Sarah think about when she heard about the rain?
Read this passage:
The weather forecast said it would rain all weekend. Sarah had planned a picnic. She started to think about a new plan. Maybe they could play board games indoors instead.
What did Sarah think about when she heard about the rain?
The passage states, 'She started to think about a new plan.'
The passage states, 'She started to think about a new plan.'
This sentence means 'I need some time to consider the matter.'
This sentence means 'She prefers to have an optimistic attitude.'
This sentence asks for someone's opinion on an idea.
Choose the sentence where 'think' is used correctly to mean 'to consider something with one's mind'.
'To think about something' implies considering it with one's mind, which aligns with the definition.
Which option best completes the sentence: 'Before making a big decision, it's important to take time to ___ it over.'
The phrase 'to think it over' means to consider something carefully, fitting the definition. 'To think' is the infinitive form, and in this context, 'think' is the correct verb form after 'to take time to'.
In which sentence does 'think' refer to forming an opinion or belief?
In this sentence, 'I think' expresses an opinion or belief about the weather. The other options relate more to the act of considering or coming up with an idea.
The sentence 'I think about him often' means that the speaker is frequently using their mind to consider the person.
To 'think about' someone or something implies considering them or it frequently with one's mind.
If someone says 'Think positive!', they are encouraging you to stop considering negative thoughts.
'Think positive!' is an idiom meaning to have an optimistic outlook or to focus on good thoughts, which involves using one's mind to consider things in a positive way.
The phrase 'I couldn't think of a better idea' means that the speaker has many excellent ideas.
This phrase means that the speaker was unable to come up with any idea that was superior to the current one, implying a lack of better options, not an abundance.
The speaker is considering their choices.
The speaker is asking for an opinion about the weather.
The speaker is describing someone who is thoughtful.
Read this aloud:
What do you think about the new project proposal?
Focus: think, project, proposal
You said:
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Read this aloud:
I really need to think before I speak, sometimes I say things impulsively.
Focus: need, think, speak, impulsively
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Don't you think it's important to consider all perspectives?
Focus: don't, think, important, perspectives
You said:
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The speaker is contemplating a significant choice.
The speaker is describing someone's creative thinking process.
The speaker is advising on how to evaluate information.
Read this aloud:
Can you elaborate on your thought process regarding this project?
Focus: elaborate, thought process
You said:
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Read this aloud:
What are your initial thoughts on the proposal presented today?
Focus: initial, proposal
You said:
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Read this aloud:
I'd like to hear your perspective on how we can improve our team's communication.
Focus: perspective, communication
You said:
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Write a short paragraph (3-4 sentences) about a time you had to think carefully before making an important decision. Describe the situation and the factors you considered.
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Sample answer
Last year, I had to think carefully about whether to accept a job offer in a new city. I considered factors such as career growth, cost of living, and proximity to family. Ultimately, I decided to take the risk, believing it would lead to a better outcome for my professional development.
Imagine you are trying to solve a complex problem. Describe the steps you would take to 'think through' the problem and arrive at a solution. Use at least three different strategies for thinking.
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Sample answer
To think through a complex problem, I would first analyze all available information, breaking it down into smaller, manageable parts. Then, I'd brainstorm potential solutions, considering their pros and cons. Finally, I'd evaluate the most promising options, using critical thinking to select the best course of action.
Reflect on a situation where a quick decision led to an unexpected result. In hindsight, what more could you have done to 'think' about the situation more thoroughly before acting?
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Sample answer
Once, I made a quick decision to invest in a new gadget without thinking thoroughly about its practical use. In hindsight, I could have researched more reviews and considered how it would integrate into my daily routine. This would have helped me avoid an unnecessary purchase and its subsequent clutter.
What is implied about the importance of 'thinking outside the box' for scientists?
Read this passage:
Scientists often need to think outside the box to come up with groundbreaking discoveries. This involves challenging existing assumptions and approaching problems from novel perspectives. Without this ability to think creatively, progress in many fields would be significantly slower, limited by conventional wisdom.
What is implied about the importance of 'thinking outside the box' for scientists?
The passage states that thinking outside the box is needed for 'groundbreaking discoveries' and that without it, 'progress in many fields would be significantly slower,' directly implying its essential role in advancements.
The passage states that thinking outside the box is needed for 'groundbreaking discoveries' and that without it, 'progress in many fields would be significantly slower,' directly implying its essential role in advancements.
According to the passage, what is a key benefit of critical thinking?
Read this passage:
Critical thinking is a crucial skill in today's information-rich world. It involves analyzing information objectively, identifying biases, and evaluating arguments before forming a judgment. People who can think critically are better equipped to make informed decisions and resist manipulation.
According to the passage, what is a key benefit of critical thinking?
The passage explicitly states that 'People who can think critically are better equipped to make informed decisions and resist manipulation,' indicating this as a key benefit.
The passage explicitly states that 'People who can think critically are better equipped to make informed decisions and resist manipulation,' indicating this as a key benefit.
What is the primary purpose of 'thinking strategically' before a project?
Read this passage:
Before embarking on any major project, it is vital to think strategically. This means setting clear goals, anticipating potential obstacles, and developing contingency plans. A well-thought-out strategy can significantly increase the chances of success and minimize unforeseen problems.
What is the primary purpose of 'thinking strategically' before a project?
The passage states that 'A well-thought-out strategy can significantly increase the chances of success and minimize unforeseen problems,' directly answering the question about its primary purpose.
The passage states that 'A well-thought-out strategy can significantly increase the chances of success and minimize unforeseen problems,' directly answering the question about its primary purpose.
This sentence structure correctly orders the words to form a coherent thought.
This arrangement creates a grammatically correct and meaningful sentence.
This order of words constructs a grammatically sound sentence.
Consider the nuance of 'prompted me to think deeply.'
Focus on 'think through' and its meaning in this context.
Listen for the idiom 'think outside the box.'
Read this aloud:
Please articulate your thoughts on the geopolitical ramifications of this new policy.
Focus: articulate, geopolitical, ramifications
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Reflect upon the ethical considerations inherent in rapidly advancing artificial intelligence.
Focus: reflect upon, ethical, inherent, artificial intelligence
You said:
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Read this aloud:
Discuss the various perspectives one might adopt when contemplating the future of sustainable energy.
Focus: discuss, perspectives, adopt, contemplating, sustainable energy
You said:
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Imagine you are a renowned philosopher. Write a short essay (150-200 words) reflecting on the nature of 'to think'. Consider its various facets, its limitations, and its potential in shaping human experience. Use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The act of thinking, at its core, transcends mere cognitive processing; it is the very crucible in which consciousness forged, a ceaseless internal dialogue that defines our sentient existence. From the nascent spark of an idea to the labyrinthine pathways of abstract reasoning, thinking orchestrates our understanding of the cosmos and our place within it. Yet, this profound capacity is not without its inherent paradoxes. Our thoughts, while seemingly boundless, are often tethered by the confines of our experiences and biases, leading to inevitable blind spots and cognitive distortions. True intellectual prowess, therefore, lies not only in the ability to think profoundly but also in the metacognitive capacity to critically examine the very mechanisms of our thought processes, acknowledging their subjective nature and striving for an ever-elusive objectivity. It is through this perpetual cycle of ideation and introspection that humanity truly evolves, shaping not only individual perspectives but also the collective trajectory of civilization.
You are a cognitive psychologist presenting at a conference. Draft an abstract (approx. 100-120 words) for your paper titled 'The Neural Correlates of Abstract Thought'. Ensure you use academic language and highlight the key findings and implications of your research.
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Sample answer
This research investigates the neural underpinnings of abstract thought, a hallmark of human cognition. Utilizing fMRI and EEG methodologies, we explored brain activity patterns during complex problem-solving and conceptual categorization tasks. Our findings indicate robust activation within the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex and anterior cingulate cortex, suggesting their critical role in the manipulation of abstract representations. Furthermore, analyses reveal dynamic interplay between widespread neural networks, particularly those involved in working memory and semantic processing, underpinning the intricate nature of abstract reasoning. These results not only deepen our understanding of higher-order cognitive functions but also offer potential avenues for therapeutic interventions targeting cognitive deficits associated with impaired abstract thought.
Write a short reflective journal entry (80-100 words) on a recent complex decision you had to make. Detail the different thought processes you engaged in, the factors you considered, and how you arrived at your final conclusion. Use precise verbs and descriptive adjectives.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
Navigating the recent career transition required immense cognitive exertion. I meticulously weighed the prospective benefits against the inherent risks, scrutinizing each potential outcome with a critical eye. Initial deliberations involved extensive research and data analysis, followed by a period of profound introspection where I grappled with personal aspirations versus pragmatic considerations. The decision wasn't easily reached; conflicting internal narratives vied for dominance. Ultimately, a blend of reasoned analysis and a subtle intuitive pull guided my final choice, solidifying a path I believe to be both challenging and ultimately fulfilling.
What is the main argument presented in the passage?
Read this passage:
The concept of 'to think' is not merely a biological imperative but a culturally sculpted phenomenon. Across diverse civilizations, the act of thinking has been imbued with varying philosophical interpretations, influencing everything from epistemological frameworks to ethical paradigms. In some traditions, thinking is viewed as a conduit to divine understanding, while in others, it's a tool for pragmatic problem-solving. This cultural relativity underscores the multifaceted nature of human cognition and challenges any monolithic definition of thought.
What is the main argument presented in the passage?
The passage explicitly states that 'Across diverse civilizations, the act of thinking has been imbued with varying philosophical interpretations,' and that 'This cultural relativity underscores the multifaceted nature of human cognition and challenges any monolithic definition of thought.'
The passage explicitly states that 'Across diverse civilizations, the act of thinking has been imbued with varying philosophical interpretations,' and that 'This cultural relativity underscores the multifaceted nature of human cognition and challenges any monolithic definition of thought.'
According to the passage, what is a significant challenge in artificial intelligence regarding human thought?
Read this passage:
In the realm of artificial intelligence, the emulation of human thought processes remains a paramount challenge. While machines can perform complex calculations and even learn from data, replicating the nuanced, intuitive, and often irrational aspects of human thinking proves far more elusive. Researchers are continually grappling with the 'qualia problem' – the subjective, qualitative aspects of conscious experience – which seems to defy purely computational models. This ongoing endeavor highlights the unique complexities inherent in our own cognitive architecture.
According to the passage, what is a significant challenge in artificial intelligence regarding human thought?
The passage states, 'While machines can perform complex calculations and even learn from data, replicating the nuanced, intuitive, and often irrational aspects of human thinking proves far more elusive.' It also mentions the 'qualia problem' as a related difficulty.
The passage states, 'While machines can perform complex calculations and even learn from data, replicating the nuanced, intuitive, and often irrational aspects of human thinking proves far more elusive.' It also mentions the 'qualia problem' as a related difficulty.
What is the primary message conveyed about cognitive biases?
Read this passage:
Cognitive biases profoundly influence how we think and perceive the world. From confirmation bias, which leads us to favor information confirming our existing beliefs, to anchoring bias, where initial information heavily sways subsequent judgments, these mental shortcuts often distort our rational processes. Understanding these biases is crucial for fostering more objective thought and making more informed decisions, both individually and collectively. Recognizing these inherent flaws in our cognitive machinery is the first step towards mitigating their impact.
What is the primary message conveyed about cognitive biases?
The passage emphasizes, 'Understanding these biases is crucial for fostering more objective thought and making more informed decisions, both individually and collectively.'
The passage emphasizes, 'Understanding these biases is crucial for fostering more objective thought and making more informed decisions, both individually and collectively.'
The complex ethical dilemma forced her to ___ deeply about the ramifications of her decision.
'Ponder' implies a deep and careful consideration, which aligns with the complexity of an ethical dilemma. The other options suggest less rigorous thought processes.
Despite the mounting evidence, he continued to ___ that his theory was correct, refusing to entertain any alternative perspectives.
'Contend' means to assert something as a position in an argument, often against opposition, which fits the context of refusing alternative perspectives. The other options imply a less forceful or less definite act of thinking.
The philosopher spent years trying to ___ the fundamental nature of existence, a task that many deemed ultimately futile.
'Fathom' means to understand a difficult problem or an enigmatic person after much thought, which is appropriate for understanding the 'fundamental nature of existence.' The other options are close but don't quite capture the depth of understanding implied.
Her groundbreaking research compelled the scientific community to ___ conventional wisdom and embrace a new paradigm.
'Re-evaluate' suggests a thorough and critical assessment leading to a change in perspective, which is fitting for a shift in scientific paradigms. The other options are weaker in comparison.
Faced with the daunting challenge, the team had to ___ a strategy that would address all potential contingencies.
'Devise' means to invent or plan a complex procedure, system, or mechanism by careful thought, which is exactly what a team would do when creating a comprehensive strategy. The other options are too general or don't convey the active creation aspect.
The cryptic message left them to ___ its hidden meaning, adding an air of mystery to the ancient artifact.
'Decipher' specifically means to convert (a text written in code, or a coded message) into ordinary language, or to succeed in understanding, interpreting, or identifying (something). This is the most accurate term for uncovering the hidden meaning of a cryptic message.
The philosopher urged us to ______ deeply about the ethical implications of technological advancements, rather than merely accepting them at face value.
'Contemplate' suggests a more profound and sustained process of thinking than the other options, fitting the context of ethical implications.
Despite the mounting evidence, she found it hard to ______ that her long-held beliefs might be incorrect, demonstrating a significant cognitive bias.
'Concede' means to admit that something is true or valid after denying it, which aligns with the difficulty of accepting incorrect beliefs.
The intricate puzzle required him to ______ through various possibilities before arriving at the most logical solution.
'Deliberate' implies careful and thorough consideration, weighing different options, which is appropriate for solving an intricate puzzle.
To 'ponder' something suggests a superficial or fleeting consideration of a topic.
To 'ponder' implies a deep and careful consideration, often for an extended period, which is the opposite of superficial or fleeting.
When one 'reflects' on past events, they are primarily focused on predicting future outcomes rather than analyzing what has already occurred.
To 'reflect' on past events means to think deeply about them and their implications, typically to learn from them, not primarily to predict the future.
The idiom 'to turn something over in one's mind' indicates a quick and decisive judgment without much thought.
To 'turn something over in one's mind' means to consider it carefully and thoroughly, examining various aspects, which is contrary to a quick and decisive judgment.
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Summary
Thinking is the mental process of considering, analyzing, or forming ideas about something.
- use your mind
- consider ideas
- form opinions
Example
What do you think about the new movie?
Related Content
This Word in Other Languages
Related Phrases
More general words
a lot of
A2A large amount or number of; plenty of.
about
A1On the subject of; concerning something.
above
A2In a higher place than something or someone.
accident
A2An unfortunate event causing damage or injury.
action
A2The process of doing something, typically to achieve an aim.
after
A2Following in time or place; later than.
afterward
A2At a later or subsequent time.
again
A2Another time; once more.
aged
B1Of a specified age.
alive
A2Living, not dead.
