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think

v. · n.
US //ˈθɪŋk// UK //θˈɪŋk// think
Irregular verb past thought past participle thought
  1. 1 to use your mind (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    to use your mind to consider something or to solve a problem.

    to employ one's mind rationally and objectively in evaluating a situation or solving a problem.

    Example

    I need some time to think about your suggestion before I decide.

    Example

    The researchers had to think deeply about the data before they could draw any meaningful conclusions from the experiment.

  2. 2 to have an opinion (v.)
    A1 Beginner

    to believe something is true or to have a specific opinion.

    to hold a particular opinion, belief, or judgment regarding a person or matter.

    Example

    I think that the new library is a great addition to our town.

    Example

    Many economists think that the current fiscal policy will lead to long-term stability despite the initial market volatility.

    Pitfall
    I am thinking that he is right.
    I think that he is right.

    When 'think' means 'to have an opinion', it is a stative verb and is usually not used in the continuous (-ing) form.

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  1. 3 to imagine or remember (v.)
    A2 Elementary

    to bring an image or idea into your mind.

    to form a mental representation of something; to conceive of a possibility.

    Example

    Think of a number between one and ten.

    Example

    It is difficult to think of a time when digital communication was not the primary method of global interaction.

  2. 4 to plan (v.)
    B1 Intermediate

    to have the intention or plan to do something.

    to intend or plan a future course of action; often used in the continuous form.

    Example

    We are thinking of moving to the countryside next year.

    Example

    The board is thinking of restructuring the entire department to improve efficiency and reduce overhead costs.

  3. 5 an act of considering (n.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate British English Informal

    a period of time spent considering something.

    an instance or period of mental consideration or reflection.

    Example

    I'll have a think about it and let you know my answer tomorrow.

    Example

    After having a good think about the proposal, the manager decided that the risks outweighed the potential benefits.

    Usage

    Usually follows 'have' or 'give it'.

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