# thought

/ˈθɔt/ (US) · /θˈɔːt/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/thought
Updated: 2026-06-19

## Senses

### 1. an idea

noun · CEFR A2

an idea or opinion that comes into your mind.

For teachers: an individual idea, notion, or product of mental activity.

- A sudden thought occurred to me while I was walking home.
- The architect shared a preliminary thought regarding the atrium's design, though he admitted the concept required further refinement.

### 2. the process of thinking

noun · CEFR B1

the act of using your mind to consider something carefully.

For teachers: the systematic process or operation of mental activity and deliberation.

- After much thought, she decided to accept the new job offer.
- The committee reached its conclusion only after deep thought and extensive consultation with independent experts.

### 3. a system of belief

noun · CEFR B2 · Academic

a way of thinking that belongs to a particular group or time.

For teachers: a collective set of ideas or a specific philosophy associated with a group, period, or movement.

- The book explores the history of Western thought from ancient times.
- Modern economic thought has been significantly influenced by the theories of social welfare developed in the mid-twentieth century.

### 4. a small amount

noun · CEFR C2 · Literary

a very small amount of something.

For teachers: a minute amount, degree, or distance.

- The soup needs to be a thought saltier to bring out the flavour.
- The tailor adjusted the hem just a thought, ensuring the fabric draped perfectly over the wearer's shoes.

### 5. past of think

verb · CEFR A2

the past tense of the verb 'think'.

For teachers: the simple past and past participle form of the irregular verb 'think'.

- I thought the movie was excellent, but my friend disagreed.
- The researchers initially thought the data was anomalous, but subsequent trials confirmed the validity of their first observations.

## Examples

- The thought of moving to a new city is very exciting.
- I gave some thought to your proposal, but I don't think it will work for our team.
- The book provides a fascinating overview of 18th-century political thought and how those ideas continue to shape modern democratic institutions.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.