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A2 verb #300 most common 8 min read

おもう

omou Top 300

At the A1 level, 'omou' is primarily introduced as part of the phrase '~to omoimasu' to express basic opinions. Learners use it to say simple things like 'I think it's delicious' (Oishii to omoimasu) or 'I think it's beautiful' (Kirei da to omoimasu). The focus is on the basic structure: [Adjective/Verb] + to omoimasu. It's a vital tool for moving beyond simple factual statements and starting to share personal perspectives. Learners also learn that 'omou' is a Group 1 (u-verb) and how to conjugate it into the polite 'omoimasu' form. At this stage, the distinction between 'omou' and other 'thinking' verbs is not yet emphasized; the goal is simply to be able to state an opinion.

At the A2 level, learners expand their use of 'omou' to include intentions and future plans. This is done using the volitional form + 'to omou' (e.g., 'Ikou to omoimasu' - I think I will go). Learners also start using the past tense 'omotta' for sudden realizations and the continuous form 'omotte iru' to describe thoughts they have held for some time. The grammatical requirement of using the plain form before 'to' becomes more important, and learners practice adding 'da' for nouns and na-adjectives. The use of 'omou' as a social softener to make requests or statements less direct is also introduced.

By B1, learners are expected to use 'omou' to quote the thoughts of others, typically using 'omotte iru' or 'omotte iru you da' (seems to think). They also learn more complex structures like '~ba ii to omou' (I think it would be good if...) to give advice. The distinction between 'omou' (subjective feeling/opinion) and 'kangaeru' (logical process) is clarified. Learners start to use 'omou' in more varied contexts, such as expressing doubt ('~nai to omou') or uncertainty. They also begin to recognize 'omou' in common idioms and compound verbs like 'omoidasu' (to remember).

At the B2 level, 'omou' is used to express nuanced perspectives and abstract concepts. Learners use it in formal debates or essays to present arguments politely. They understand the difference between 'omou' and 'shinjiru' (to believe) or 'kanjiru' (to feel). The use of 'omou' in the passive form ('omowarete iru' - it is thought that...) to describe general public opinion is introduced. Learners also become proficient in using 'omou' with various grammatical particles to change the focus of the thought, such as 'wa' for contrast ('Sou wa omoimasen' - I don't think *that*).

At the C1 level, learners master the literary and highly formal uses of 'omou'. This includes the humble form 'zonjiru' and its various conjugations used in business and honorific speech. They can appreciate the use of 'omou' in classical literature and poetry, where it often carries deep emotional weight like 'longing' or 'loving'. Learners can use 'omou' to discuss complex philosophical or social issues, employing it to frame hypothetical scenarios or deeply held values. They also understand the subtle nuances of 'omou' when used in different registers, from slang to highly formal prose.

At the C2 level, the speaker has a native-like grasp of 'omou'. They can use it to convey the most subtle shades of meaning, often relying on the word's inherent ambiguity to navigate complex social situations. They are familiar with archaic forms of the verb and can use it in creative writing to evoke specific moods. The speaker can analyze the etymological roots of 'omou' and how its meaning has evolved over centuries. They use 'omou' effortlessly in any context, from high-level academic discourse to intimate personal conversations, always choosing the perfect conjugation and surrounding particles to convey their exact intent.

Practice it Examples Notes & Tips

おもう in 30 Seconds

Omou is the primary Japanese verb for 'to think' or 'to feel' an opinion.
It is used with the particle 'to' to quote thoughts and opinions.
Unlike 'kangaeru', it is more about subjective feelings than logical analysis.
It is a crucial tool for being polite and indirect in Japanese conversation.

The Japanese verb おもう (思う - omou) is a foundational pillar of the Japanese language, serving as the primary vehicle for expressing internal thoughts, opinions, and feelings. Unlike the English word 'think,' which often implies a purely logical or cognitive process, omou bridges the gap between the mind and the heart. It is used to convey what you believe to be true, what you feel emotionally about a situation, and even what you intend to do in the future. In Japanese culture, where directness is often softened to maintain social harmony, omou acts as a crucial linguistic buffer. By ending a statement with 〜と思う (to omou), a speaker transforms a potentially blunt assertion into a personal perspective, making it sound more polite and less confrontational.

Core Concept: The internal state of holding an opinion or feeling a certain way about something or someone.
Emotional Nuance: Often carries a sense of 'feeling' or 'sensing' rather than just 'calculating' or 'analyzing'.

明日、雨が降るとおもう。 (I think it will rain tomorrow.)

In daily life, you will hear this word constantly. Whether someone is ordering food and says 'I think I'll have this' or a friend is sharing their worries about an exam, omou is the go-to verb. It is also used in more profound contexts, such as kuni o omou (thinking of one's country/patriotism) or haha o omou (thinking of one's mother with affection). This versatility makes it one of the most frequently used verbs in the Japanese lexicon.

Furthermore, omou is distinct from kangaeru (考える). While kangaeru involves logical reasoning, problem-solving, or deliberate contemplation, omou is more spontaneous and subjective. If you are solving a math problem, you use kangaeru. If you are looking at a sunset and feeling happy, you use omou. Understanding this distinction is key to sounding natural in Japanese.

Social Function: Softens statements to avoid appearing overly assertive or arrogant in social interactions.

彼は優しい人だとおもう。 (I think he is a kind person.)

The most common grammatical structure for omou is the quotation pattern: [Clause in Plain Form] + と思う. This 'to' acts as a quotation particle, effectively wrapping your thought and presenting it to the listener. It is important to remember that the clause inside the 'to' must be in its plain (dictionary) form, even if the overall sentence is polite.

Basic Opinion: Used to state what you currently believe. Example: 'Oishii to omoimasu' (I think it's delicious).
Ongoing State: Using 'omotte iru' (thinking) suggests a thought you have held for a while or something someone else is thinking.

日本に行きたいとおもっています。 (I am thinking that I want to go to Japan.)

When expressing an intention or a plan, omou is paired with the volitional form of a verb. For example, ikou to omou means 'I think I will go' or 'I intend to go'. This is a very natural way to discuss future plans without sounding too rigid. If you use the continuous form omotte iru, it implies that you have been considering this plan for some time, rather than just deciding it on the spot.

In negative sentences, Japanese speakers usually negate the clause *inside* the thought rather than the verb omou itself. Instead of saying 'I don't think it's good,' they say 'I think it's not good' (yokunai to omoimasu). While 'omowanai' (don't think) exists, it is used less frequently for simple opinions and more for expressing a lack of consideration or surprise.

Past Tense: 'Omotta' is used for a thought that occurred at a specific moment in the past. 'I thought, oh, it's cold!'

テストは難しいとおもった。 (I thought the test was difficult.)

In the workplace, omou is indispensable. During meetings, employees use to omoimasu to present suggestions or feedback politely. It allows for a collaborative atmosphere where ideas are shared as 'thoughts' rather than 'demands.' You might hear a manager say, Kono pura-n ga ii to omoimasu (I think this plan is good), which invites others to share their own thoughts.

Workplace Usage: Used to offer opinions in a way that respects hierarchy and group consensus.
Media & News: Interviewees frequently use 'omotte orimasu' (humble form) to express their commitment or views.

精一杯頑張りたいとおもっております。 (I am thinking/intending to do my absolute best.)

In anime and drama, omou is often used in internal monologues. Characters will reflect on their feelings for others or their resolve. A classic line might be Zutto kimi no koto o omotte ita (I have been thinking of you all this time), which carries a heavy romantic or emotional weight. Here, the word transcends simple 'thinking' and enters the realm of 'longing' or 'cherishing.'

Social media is another place where omou thrives. On platforms like X (Twitter) or Instagram, users post their 'omoi' (thoughts/feelings) about movies, food, or events. The phrase ~to omou hito, ri-tsui-to! (Retweet if you think...!) is a common way to engage with others who share the same opinion.

Daily Chitchat: Used for low-stakes opinions like 'I think it's going to be cold today' or 'I think this cake is sweet.'

これはちょっと高いとおもう。 (I think this is a bit expensive.)

One of the most frequent mistakes English speakers make is confusing omou with kangaeru. Because both translate to 'think' in English, learners often use them interchangeably. However, if you say kangaeru when you mean to express an opinion, you sound like you are performing a complex calculation or deep analysis on a simple matter. For example, saying 'I *kangaeru* this sushi is good' sounds very strange; use omou instead.

Mistake 1: Omitting 'to': Learners often forget the quotation particle 'to'. You cannot say 'Oishii omoimasu'; it must be 'Oishii *to* omoimasu'.
Mistake 2: Noun/Na-Adjective Copula: Forgetting to add 'da' before 'to' for nouns and na-adjectives. 'Suki to omoimasu' is incorrect; it should be 'Suki *da* to omoimasu'.

❌ 彼は学生とおもう。
✅ 彼は学生だとおもう。 (I think he is a student.)

Another mistake is using omou to express someone else's opinion in the simple form. In Japanese, you generally cannot state another person's internal feelings as a fact. Instead of Tanaka-san wa oishii to omoimasu (which sounds like you are telepathic), you should use Tanaka-san wa oishii to omotte imasu (Tanaka-san is thinking/appears to think it's delicious) or omotte iru you desu (seems to think).

Lastly, be careful with the past tense. Omotta refers to a specific moment of realization. If you want to say 'I used to think (but now I don't),' you might need omotte ita. Using the wrong past form can change the meaning from 'I just realized' to 'I held this belief for a long time.'

Mistake 3: Overusing 'Omou': While it's a great buffer, ending every single sentence with 'to omoimasu' can make you sound indecisive or lacking in confidence.

While omou is the most versatile word for thinking, Japanese offers several alternatives that provide more specific nuances. Choosing the right one will make your Japanese sound much more sophisticated and precise.

考える (Kangaeru): Focuses on logical reasoning, planning, or pondering a problem. It's 'thinking' with your brain.
感じる (Kanjiru): Means 'to feel' in a physical or intuitive sense. Use this for 'I feel a breeze' or 'I feel a sense of danger.'
信じる (Shinjiru): Means 'to believe.' This is stronger than 'omou' and implies faith or trust in a fact or person.

将来についてかんがえる。 (I am thinking/planning about the future.)

In formal or written contexts, you might encounter minasu (to consider/regard as) or suitei suru (to presume/estimate). These are much more clinical and are rarely used in casual conversation. For expressing a guess or a hunch, ki ga suru (to have a feeling that...) is a very common alternative to omou when you aren't quite sure why you think something.

Another interesting alternative is zonjiru (存じる), which is the humble version of omou. You will hear this in very formal business settings or when speaking to someone of much higher status. For example, Sayo de gozaimasu to zonjimasu (I believe that is so) is a highly polite way to agree.

思い出す (Omoidasu): A compound verb meaning 'to remember' or 'to recall' (literally 'to think out').

いいアイデアをおもいついた！ (I just thought of/hit upon a great idea!)

How Formal Is It?

Formal

"そのように存じます。"

Neutral

"いいと思います。"

Informal

"いいと思うよ。"

Child friendly

"どうおもう？"

Slang

"〜とか思っちゃって。"

Fun Fact

The kanji for 'omou' (思) consists of 'field' (田) on top and 'heart' (心) on the bottom. One theory is that 'field' actually represents the brain or skull, symbolizing the combination of head and heart.

Pronunciation Guide

UK /oʊ.moʊ/

US /oʊ.moʊ/

Flat pitch accent (Heiban). The pitch starts low and rises, staying high for the rest of the word.

Rhymes With

Tomou (to accompany) Somou (to dye - archaic) Domou (to stutter) Komou (to be crowded - variant) Nomou (let's drink) Yomou (let's read) Arou (let's be) Irou (to color)

Common Errors

Pronouncing it like 'oh-moo' (rhyming with 'moo'). It should be 'oh-moh-oo'.
Elongating the first 'o' too much.
Dropping the final 'u' sound entirely.
Using an English 'th' sound for the 'o' (unlikely but possible for absolute beginners).
Incorrect pitch accent, making it sound like 'heavy' (omoi).

Difficulty Rating

Reading 2/5

The kanji 思 is common and learned early (Grade 2).

Writing 2/5

Simple to write, but requires remembering the heart radical.

Speaking 1/5

Essential and used in almost every conversation.

Listening 1/5

Very easy to recognize due to its frequency.

What to Learn Next

Prerequisites

私 (watashi) と (particle) だ (copula) いい (good) おいしい (delicious)

Learn Next

考える (kangaeru) 言う (iu) 信じる (shinjiru) 〜という (called...) 〜つもり (intention)

Advanced

存じる (zonjiru) 思料する (shiryou suru) 懸念する (kenen suru) 推測する (suisoku suru)

Grammar to Know

Quotation Particle 'to'

「おいしい」と思う。

Plain Form before 'to'

行くと思う。 (Not 行きますと思う)

Volitional + to omou

食べようと思う。

Noun/Na-adj + da + to omou

好きだと思う。

Omotte iru for third person

彼はそう思っている。

Examples by Level

これはおいしいとおもいます。

I think this is delicious.

Uses 'to omoimasu' after an i-adjective.

日本はきれいだとおもいます。

I think Japan is beautiful.

Uses 'da' before 'to' because 'kirei' is a na-adjective.

あしたははれだとおもいます。

I think it will be sunny tomorrow.

Uses 'da' before 'to' for a noun (hare).

かれはやさしいとおもいます。

I think he is kind.

Expressing a simple opinion about a person.

この本はおもしろいとおもいます。

I think this book is interesting.

Plain form of adjective + to omoimasu.

ねこはかわいいとおもいます。

I think cats are cute.

General opinion using 'to omoimasu'.

日本語はむずかしいとおもいます。

I think Japanese is difficult.

Expressing a personal feeling about a subject.

田中さんは学生だとおもいます。

I think Mr. Tanaka is a student.

Noun + da + to omoimasu.

来年、日本へ行こうとおもっています。

I am thinking of going to Japan next year.

Volitional form + to omotte imasu (intention).

映画はあまりおもしろくないとおもいました。

I thought the movie wasn't very interesting.

Past tense 'omotta' for a past opinion.

今日は雨が降るとおもいます。

I think it will rain today.

Verb plain form + to omoimasu.

新しい車を買おうとおもいます。

I think I will buy a new car.

Volitional form + to omoimasu (decision).

彼は来ないとおもいます。

I don't think he will come.

Negative verb + to omoimasu.

もっと勉強しなければならないとおもっています。

I'm thinking that I have to study more.

Expressing a continuous feeling of necessity.

あ、かぎを忘れたとおもった。

Oh, I thought I forgot my keys.

Past tense for a sudden realization.

この料理は辛すぎるとおもいます。

I think this food is too spicy.

Expressing a subjective judgment.

田中さんは、あしたは休みだと思っているようです。

It seems Tanaka-san thinks tomorrow is a holiday.

Using 'omotte iru' to describe someone else's thought.

もっと早く寝ればよかったと思いました。

I thought I should have gone to bed earlier.

Past regret expressed with 'to omotta'.

彼は嘘をついているのではないかと思いました。

I wondered if he might be lying.

Expressing a suspicion or doubt.

この問題は解決できると思っています。

I believe/think this problem can be solved.

Expressing confidence or a held belief.

母のことを思うと、涙が出ます。

When I think of my mother, I cry.

Using 'omou' to mean 'to feel for' or 'to cherish'.

君ならできると思っていたよ。

I knew (thought) you could do it.

Past continuous to show a long-held belief.

どうすればいいか、自分でもわからないと思っています。

I'm thinking that even I don't know what to do.

Expressing internal confusion.

まさか、彼が犯人だとは思わなかった。

I never thought he was the culprit.

Negative past to express surprise.

彼の意見は正しいと思わざるを得ない。

I cannot help but think his opinion is correct.

Formal structure 'omowazaru o enai' (cannot help but think).

それは、単なる偶然だと思われます。

That is thought to be a mere coincidence.

Passive form 'omowareru' for objective-sounding opinion.

自分がどう思われているか、気になります。

I'm concerned about how I am being thought of (by others).

Passive form 'omowarete iru' (being thought of).

この計画には無理があるのではないかと思われます。

It is thought that this plan might be unreasonable.

Polite, indirect way to express criticism.

彼女の成功は努力の結果だと思っています。

I believe her success is the result of effort.

Expressing a firm conviction.

そう思うのも無理はない。

It's no wonder you think so.

Validating someone else's thought process.

何事も経験だと思って、挑戦してみます。

Thinking that everything is an experience, I will try the challenge.

Using 'omou' to frame a mindset.

思えば、遠くへ来たものだ。

Thinking back, I've come a long way.

Literary use of 'omoeba' to reflect on the past.

その件につきましては、左様でございますと存じます。

Regarding that matter, I believe that is so.

Humble form 'zonjiru' used in high-level business.

国民の期待に応えたいと思っております。

I am thinking (intending) to meet the expectations of the citizens.

Polite humble form 'omotte orimasu' for public statements.

深く思い悩む必要はありません。

There is no need to worry (think and suffer) deeply.

Compound verb 'omoi-nayamu' (to worry/agonize).

彼を思う心が、彼女を強くした。

Her heart thinking of him made her strong.

Using 'omou' as a noun-modifying verb for deep affection.

思わぬ展開に、一同は驚いた。

Everyone was surprised by the unexpected development.

Adjective 'omowanu' (unexpected/unthought of).

今となっては、なぜあんなことをしたのかと思わずにはいられない。

Now, I cannot help but wonder why I did such a thing.

Double negative 'omowazu ni wa irarenai' (cannot help but think).

万事、思うようにはいかないものだ。

Things don't always go as one thinks (hopes).

Idiomatic use 'omou you ni' (as one wishes/expects).

彼は、自分が正しいと思い込んでいる。

He is under the firm (but perhaps mistaken) impression that he is right.

Compound verb 'omoi-komu' (to be convinced/under an impression).

故郷を思う念は、歳月を経るごとに強くなる。

The feeling of longing for one's hometown grows stronger with the passing years.

Highly literary use of 'omou' for deep emotional longing.

死を思うことは、生を輝かせることでもある。

Thinking of death is also a way to make life shine.

Philosophical use of 'omou' as a conceptual verb.

彼の行動は、公序良俗に反するものと思料される。

His actions are considered to be contrary to public order and morals.

Legal/Academic term 'shiryou' (thinking/considering).

思いの丈をすべて手紙に綴った。

I wrote all the depth of my feelings in the letter.

Idiomatic 'omoi no take' (all of one's thoughts/feelings).

一念、天に通ずれば、道は開けるものと思う。

I believe that if one's determined thought reaches heaven, a path will open.

Proverbial usage in a formal context.

それを聞いて、思わず膝を打った。

Hearing that, I reflexively slapped my knee (in sudden realization/agreement).

Idiomatic 'omowazu' (unintentionally/reflexively).

古の人の心を思うに、感慨深いものがある。

When I think of the hearts of the ancients, I am deeply moved.

Literary 'omou ni' structure for reflection.

主君を思う忠義の心は、何物にも代えがたい。

The heart of loyalty thinking of one's lord is irreplaceable.

Archaic/Historical context of 'omou'.

Common Collocations

〜と思う

〜と思っている

〜と思わせる

〜と思われる

ふと思う

深く思う

〜しようと思う

〜ではないかと思う

自分では〜と思う

〜としか思えない

Common Phrases

そう思います

どう思いますか？

〜だと思っていました

いいと思います

〜とおもって

自分なりに思う

〜と思いきや

〜と思うと

〜と思えば

〜と思っても

Often Confused With

おもう vs 考える (kangaeru)

Kangaeru is logical/analytical; Omou is subjective/emotional.

おもう vs 感じる (kanjiru)

Kanjiru is for physical or intuitive senses.

おもう vs 信じる (shinjiru)

Shinjiru is a much stronger conviction or faith.

Idioms & Expressions

"思う壺 (omou tsubo)"

To fall right into someone's trap or to go exactly as someone planned.

彼の思う壺にはまった。

Common

"思う存分 (omou zonbun)"

To one's heart's content; as much as one likes.

思う存分食べてください。

Common

"思いも寄らない (omoi mo yoranai)"

Unexpected; unthinkable; beyond imagination.

思いも寄らない結果になった。

Neutral

"思いのまま (omoi no mama)"

As one pleases; at will.

思いのままに生きる。

Neutral

"思いに沈む (omoi ni shizumu)"

To be lost in thought; to be brooding.

彼は一人で思いに沈んでいた。

Literary

"思いを馳せる (omoi o haseru)"

To let one's thoughts go out to (a distant place or person).

故郷に思いを馳せる。

Literary

"思いを寄せる (omoi o yoseru)"

To have feelings for someone; to be in love with.

密かに彼女に思いを寄せる。

Neutral

"思いを新たにする (omoi o arata ni suru)"

To renew one's determination or feelings.

新年にあたり、思いを新たにする。

Formal

"思い半ばに過ぐ (omoi nakaba ni sugu)"

To be able to imagine the rest; to be easy to guess.

その苦労は思い半ばに過ぎる。

Literary

"思いの外 (omoi no hoka)"

Unexpectedly; surprisingly.

思いの外、時間がかかった。

Neutral

Easily Confused

おもう vs 考える (kangaeru)

Both mean 'to think' in English.

Kangaeru is like 'to ponder' or 'to solve'. Omou is like 'to believe' or 'to feel'.

数学の問題を考える。 (Think about a math problem.)

おもう vs 思い出す (omoidasu)

Contains 'omou'.

Omoidasu specifically means to recall something from the past.

名前を思い出す。 (Remember a name.)

おもう vs 思う (omou) vs 想う (omou)

Same pronunciation, different kanji.

思 is for general thinking. 想 is for deep emotional thinking or imagining.

恋人を想う。 (Thinking of one's lover.)

おもう vs 存じる (zonjiru)

Humble version.

Only used in very formal settings to show respect.

存じております。 (I know/think so - humble.)

おもう vs 気がする (ki ga suru)

Similar meaning of 'having a feeling'.

Ki ga suru is more of a hunch; Omou is a clearer opinion.

そんな気がする。 (I have a feeling that's the case.)

Sentence Patterns

[Noun] は [Adj] と思います。

これはいいと思います。

[Noun] は [Noun] だと思います。

あれは犬だと思います。

[Verb Plain] と思います。

明日来ると思います。

[Volitional] と思っています。

買おうと思っています。

[Clause] のではないかと思います。

間違いではないかと思います。

[Person] は [Clause] と思っています。

田中さんは忙しいと思っています。

[Clause] と思われます。

不可能だと思われます。

[Clause] と存じます。

承知いたしましたと存じます。

Word Family

Nouns

Verbs

Adjectives

How to Use It

frequency

Extremely High. One of the top 50 most used verbs in Japanese.

Common Mistakes

Oishii omoimasu. → Oishii to omoimasu.
You must use the particle 'to' to connect the adjective to the verb 'omou'.
Suki to omoimasu. → Suki da to omoimasu.
For na-adjectives like 'suki', you need the copula 'da' before 'to'.
Tanaka-san wa oishii to omoimasu. → Tanaka-san wa oishii to omotte imasu.
Use the continuous form 'omotte imasu' when talking about someone else's current opinion.
Ashita ikimasu to omoimasu. → Ashita iku to omoimasu.
The clause inside the 'to' should be in the plain form, not the polite 'masu' form.
Using 'omou' for a math problem. → Using 'kangaeru'.
'Omou' is for opinions; 'kangaeru' is for logical problem-solving.

Tips

The 'Da' Rule

Always remember to add 'da' before 'to' if the word before it is a noun or a na-adjective. This is the most common mistake for beginners.

Be Soft

Use 'to omoimasu' to make your statements sound less like 'I'm right' and more like 'This is my view'. It's essential for Japanese politeness.

Omou vs Kangaeru

If you can replace 'think' with 'feel' or 'believe', use 'omou'. If you can replace it with 'calculate' or 'ponder', use 'kangaeru'.

Intention

Use the volitional form + 'to omou' to talk about your plans. It sounds much more natural than just using the future tense.

The 'To' Sound

In fast speech, the 'to' in 'to omoimasu' can be very short. Practice listening for that quick 't' sound before the 'o'.

Kanji Choice

Stick to 思 for almost everything. Only use 想 in very emotional or poetic writing.

Compound Verbs

Learn 'omoidasu' (remember) and 'omoitsuku' (hit upon) early, as they are used constantly.

Omoiyari

The word for 'consideration for others' is 'omoiyari', which literally means 'sending your thoughts' to someone else.

Negative Thoughts

Instead of 'I don't think it's X', try saying 'I think it's not X' (X-nai to omoimasu). It's more common.

Passive Form

Use 'omowareru' in formal writing to say 'it is thought that...' without specifying who is thinking it.

Memorize It

Mnemonic

Think of 'Oh, Moe!' (a common anime trope). You 'think' and 'feel' strongly about Moe characters.

Visual Association

Imagine a thought bubble coming from both a brain and a heart simultaneously.

Word Web

Think Feel Opinion Intention Heart Memory Belief Guess

Challenge

Try to end every opinion you state today with '...to omoimasu'. See how it changes the 'feel' of your English thoughts too!

Word Origin

Derived from the Old Japanese verb 'omopu'. The 'p' sound shifted to 'h' and eventually became silent or 'w' in modern Japanese.

Original meaning: To face something with one's heart; to have something in mind.

Japonic

Cultural Context

Be careful when using 'omou' about other people's feelings; always use 'omotte iru' or 'you da' to avoid sounding like you're claiming to know their mind.

English speakers often say 'I think' to mean 'I'm pretty sure.' In Japanese, 'omou' is even softer and more subjective.

The song 'Kimi o Omou' (Thinking of You) by various artists. The phrase 'Ware omou, yue ni ware ari' (I think, therefore I am) - Descartes' famous quote translated. The concept of 'Omoiyari' (altruism/consideration for others).

Practice in Real Life

Real-World Contexts

Giving an opinion

いいと思う
そうは思わない
どう思う？
正しいと思う

Future plans

行こうと思う
買おうと思っている
やめようと思った
続けようと思う

Expressing feelings

寂しいと思う
嬉しいと思っている
残念に思う
申し訳なく思う

Recalling memories

昔を思う
母を思う
あの時を思うと
懐かしく思う

Making guesses

雨が降ると思う
彼は来ないと思う
多分そうだと思う
間に合うと思う

Conversation Starters

"この映画について、どう思いますか？ (What do you think about this movie?)"

"日本の生活はどうだと思いますか？ (What do you think about life in Japan?)"

"明日の天気はどうなると思いますか？ (What do you think the weather will be like tomorrow?)"

"一番大切なことは何だと思いますか？ (What do you think is the most important thing?)"

"将来、何をしようと思っていますか？ (What are you thinking of doing in the future?)"

Journal Prompts

今日一番うれしいと思ったことは何ですか？ (What was the thing you thought was happiest today?)

将来の自分について、どう思っていますか？ (What do you think about your future self?)

最近、面白いと思ったニュースは何ですか？ (What news did you think was interesting recently?)

大切に思っている人について書いてください。 (Write about someone you think of as important.)

日本語の勉強について、どう思っていますか？ (What do you think about your Japanese studies?)

Frequently Asked Questions

10 questions

Yes, but you should use 'omotte iru' (is thinking) or 'omotte iru you da' (seems to be thinking). Stating 'Tanaka-san wa oishii to omoimasu' sounds like you are inside his head. Use 'Tanaka-san wa oishii to omotte imasu' instead.

Think of 'omou' as coming from the heart/gut (opinions, feelings) and 'kangaeru' as coming from the brain (logic, analysis, planning). If you're giving an opinion, use 'omou'. If you're solving a puzzle, use 'kangaeru'.

Yes, when quoting a thought or opinion, 'to' is mandatory. It acts as the 'that' in 'I think that...'. Without it, the sentence is grammatically incomplete.

For nouns and na-adjectives, you need the copula 'da' to link them to the 'to' particle. It's like saying 'I think (it) IS a cat' vs 'I think cat'.

The most common way is 'Sou wa omoimasen' or 'Sou ja nai to omoimasu'. Simply saying 'Omowanai' is often too blunt or doesn't fit the context.

'Omou' is a single thought or a general opinion. 'Omotte iru' suggests a continuous state of thinking or a thought you've held for a while. It's also the standard way to describe someone else's thoughts.

In literary or poetic contexts, yes. 'Kimi o omou' can mean 'I am thinking of you' with a strong romantic or affectionate nuance.

'Omoimasu' is standard polite. In very formal situations, use 'omotte orimasu' or 'zonjimasu'.

It's the adverbial form meaning 'unintentionally' or 'spontaneously'. For example, 'Omowazu waratta' means 'I laughed without thinking'.

Yes, like 'Doko da to omoimasu ka?' (Where do you think it is?). You still use the 'to' particle.