ENGLISH
REFERENCE

I don’t think so

fixed phr..
A2 Elementary Oxford

fixed phr.. A polite way to say 'no' or to disagree with what someone has said. You can use it as a complete answer to a question.

fixed phr.. A fixed expression used to politely express disagreement or a negative opinion in response to a statement or yes/no question.


SIMPLE

Is it going to rain? I don't think so.

CONTEXTUAL

He asked if the store was still open, but I don't think so.

COMPLEX

When asked if the new policy would solve the underlying problem, the analyst simply replied, 'I don't think so.'

Usage

This is a common, gentle way to disagree or give a negative answer without being too direct.

Teaching tip

Contrast with the more direct 'No' and the more formal 'I think not'; this phrase is a common, polite alternative in everyday conversation.

Pitfall

I no think so.I don't think so.The standard negative form for the verb 'think' in this expression requires 'do not' or 'don't'.

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