ENGLISH
REFERENCE

think of

phrasal verb.
Definition

phrasal verb. to have a thought or an idea about something, or to remember a person or thing.

phrasal verb. to conceive of an idea, to recall something from memory, or to hold a particular opinion regarding a subject.


SIMPLE

I can't think of his name right now.

CONTEXTUAL

When I see this old photo, I always think of our summer holiday in Spain.

COMPLEX

The committee spent several hours trying to think of a viable solution to the budget deficit before the deadline.

Particles
of
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
think + of + object
Usage

often used with 'can' or 'could' when referring to the ability to remember something.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'think about', which implies a longer process of consideration, whereas 'think of' often refers to a sudden idea or a simple act of recall.

Pitfall

I am thinking of you since yesterday.I have been thinking of you since yesterday.use the present perfect continuous for an action that started in the past and continues to the present moment.

Last updated April 24, 2026