The verb ‘think’ seems simple, but it causes many errors for English learners. The main problem is that ‘think’ has different meanings depending on the structure that follows it. You can use ‘think’ to express an opinion, a belief, a plan, or a memory, and each use follows a specific grammar pattern. This guide will help you avoid the most frequent mistakes with ‘think’ so you can write and speak more naturally.
Quick Answer: The Two Main Uses of ‘think’
Most mistakes happen when learners confuse two key structures:
- Think + that clause (for opinions and beliefs): “I think that she is right.” The word ‘that’ is optional in informal English.
- Think + about / of + noun or gerund (for considering or remembering): “I am thinking about changing jobs.”
Never use ‘think to do something’ as a direct replacement for ‘want to do something.’ For example, “I think to go home” is incorrect. Instead, say “I think I will go home” or “I am thinking about going home.”
Common Mistake 1: Using ‘think’ Instead of ‘want’
This is the most frequent error. Learners often say “I think to buy a new phone” when they mean “I want to buy a new phone” or “I am thinking about buying a new phone.” The verb ‘think’ does not directly connect to an infinitive (‘to + verb’) to express desire.
Why this happens
In some languages, the verb for ‘think’ can be followed directly by an infinitive to mean ‘plan to’ or ‘intend to.’ In English, this structure is ungrammatical.
Correct alternatives
- I think I will buy a new phone. (opinion + future plan)
- I am thinking about buying a new phone. (considering)
- I want to buy a new phone. (desire)
Common Mistake 2: Confusing ‘think of’ and ‘think about’
Both are correct, but they have different nuances. Many learners use them interchangeably, which can change the meaning.
When to use ‘think of’
Use ‘think of’ when you are recalling a memory or having a sudden idea.
- “I can’t think of his name right now.” (memory)
- “She thought of a great solution.” (idea)
When to use ‘think about’
Use ‘think about’ when you are considering something carefully or over a period of time.
- “I need to think about your offer.” (careful consideration)
- “He spends a lot of time thinking about the future.” (ongoing reflection)
Comparison table: ‘think of’ vs ‘think about’
| Situation | ‘think of’ | ‘think about’ |
|---|---|---|
| Sudden idea | “I thought of a new name for the project.” | Less common; “I thought about a new name” sounds like a longer process. |
| Memory | “I often think of my childhood.” | “I often think about my childhood.” (also correct, but slightly more reflective) |
| Opinion | “What do you think of this movie?” | “What do you think about this movie?” (both are common) |
| Planning | Rare for planning. | “I am thinking about moving to a new city.” |
Common Mistake 3: Forgetting the Continuous Form for Current Thoughts
When you are in the middle of considering something right now, use the present continuous: “I am thinking.” Using the simple present “I think” for an action happening at this moment sounds unnatural.
Incorrect
“What do you think about right now?” (This asks for your general opinion, not your current mental activity.)
Correct
“What are you thinking about right now?” (This asks what is on your mind at this moment.)
Formal vs informal context
In formal emails, you might write: “I am thinking about your proposal and will respond by Friday.” In casual conversation, you can say: “I’m thinking we should leave now.” The continuous form is natural in both, but the simple present ‘I think’ is better for stating a firm opinion: “I think this is the best option.”
Common Mistake 4: Using ‘think’ with a Negative in the Wrong Place
When you want to express a negative opinion, the negative goes with the verb ‘think,’ not with the verb in the ‘that’ clause. This is called negative transfer.
Incorrect
“I think he is not coming.” (This is grammatically possible but sounds unnatural in most contexts.)
Correct
“I don’t think he is coming.” (This is the standard native speaker pattern.)
More examples
- Incorrect: “I think she doesn’t like me.”
- Correct: “I don’t think she likes me.”
- Incorrect: “I think they won’t arrive on time.”
- Correct: “I don’t think they will arrive on time.”
Natural Examples of ‘think’ in Context
Here are examples showing how native speakers use ‘think’ in different situations.
In conversation
- “I think we should take the train instead of driving.” (opinion)
- “What do you think of the new design?” (asking for opinion)
- “I’m thinking about what to cook for dinner.” (current consideration)
In email
- “I think the deadline is too tight. Can we discuss this?” (polite opinion)
- “Please think about the proposal and let me know your thoughts.” (request for consideration)
- “I don’t think we have enough data to make a decision yet.” (negative opinion)
In writing
- “The author thinks that technology has changed how we communicate.” (stated belief)
- “She thought of a way to solve the problem.” (sudden idea)
Better Alternatives to Common Mistakes
If you catch yourself making one of these errors, here is a quick fix guide.
- Instead of: “I think to go.” Use: “I think I will go” or “I am thinking about going.”
- Instead of: “I think of you every day.” (if you mean careful reflection) Use: “I think about you every day.”
- Instead of: “I think he is not ready.” Use: “I don’t think he is ready.”
- Instead of: “What do you think right now?” Use: “What are you thinking about right now?”
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Choose the correct option for each sentence. Answers are below.
- I _____ buying a new laptop next month.
A. think to
B. am thinking about
C. think of - She can’t _____ his phone number.
A. think about
B. think of
C. think to - _____ the meeting is at 3 PM?
A. Do you think
B. Are you thinking
C. Do you think of - I _____ he is telling the truth.
A. don’t think
B. think not
C. think he doesn’t
Answers
- B. “am thinking about” is correct for considering a future action.
- B. “think of” is correct for recalling a memory.
- A. “Do you think” is correct for asking an opinion about a fact.
- A. “don’t think” is the standard negative pattern.
FAQ: Common Questions About ‘think’
1. Can I say “I think so”?
Yes. “I think so” is a common short answer when you agree with a positive statement. For example: “Is she coming?” “I think so.” For negative statements, use “I don’t think so.”
2. What is the difference between “I think” and “I believe”?
“I think” is more common in everyday conversation and can express a weaker opinion. “I believe” sounds stronger and more personal. In formal writing, “I believe” can show conviction. Both are followed by a ‘that’ clause.
3. Is “I am thinking to” ever correct?
No. In standard English, “I am thinking to” is not used. Use “I am thinking about” or “I am considering” instead. Some dialects may use it, but it is not considered correct in formal or academic English.
4. How do I ask for someone’s opinion politely?
You can say: “What do you think about this?” or “What are your thoughts on this?” For a more formal tone, use: “I would appreciate your opinion on this matter.” Avoid “What do you think of this?” in very formal contexts, as it can sound too direct.
Final Tip for Mastering ‘think’
The best way to avoid mistakes with ‘think’ is to memorize the patterns: ‘think + that clause’ for opinions, ‘think about + noun/gerund’ for consideration, and ‘think of + noun’ for ideas and memories. Practice by writing three sentences for each pattern today. For more help with verb patterns, visit our Common Verb Mistakes section or explore Verb Forms Explained for deeper grammar guides. If you have questions, feel free to contact us or check our FAQ page.
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