English Reference
verb · noun

think

v. · n.
US /ˈθɪŋk/ UK /θˈɪŋk/ think UK spelling thinks

infinitive think past thought past participle thought

  1. 01 A1 Beginner

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

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

  2. 02 A1 Beginner

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

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

    Simple

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

    In context

    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.

  3. 03 A2 Elementary

    v.to bring an image or idea into your mind.

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

    Simple

    Think of a number between one and ten.

    In context

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

    imaginevisualiseconceive
  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    v.to have the intention or plan to do something.

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

    Simple

    We are thinking of moving to the countryside next year.

    In context

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

  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate British EnglishInformal

    n.a period of time spent considering something.

    n.an instance or period of mental consideration or reflection.

    Simple

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

    In context

    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'.

Usage think that's · think tank · think people

This entry
Level A1 · Beginner
Frequency Very common
Updated