phrase
I think
eye THINGK
I think (phrase) means used to show that you believe something but are not completely sure of it. Example: “The meeting is at three, I think.”
phrase
1
Used to show that you believe something but are not completely sure of it.
"The meeting is at three, I think."
"I think she said Tuesday, but check with her."
2
Used to introduce an opinion, often to make it sound less forceful.
"I think we should wait for the full report."
"I think that was the best thing you have written."
How to use I think
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA way of saying something without claiming to be certain.
When to use it
Neutral in speech and informal writing; usually cut from formal or academic prose.
Memory tip
English prefers I don't think it will rain to I think it won't rain; the negative moves to the first verb.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
I think so
I think not
I don't think so
or so I think
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Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The meeting is at three, _____.
Synonyms
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I believe
I reckon
if I remember rightly
presumably
in my view
personally
I would say
it seems to me
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between I think and I believe?
I think usually marks an opinion or a not-quite-certain fact and is easy to back down from. I believe suggests a firmer, more considered conviction, so it sounds stronger and slightly more formal.
Is it rude to say I think too often?
Not rude, but overusing it makes writing sound tentative and can weaken an argument. In formal reports it is often better to state the point directly and support it with evidence.
Where should I think go in a sentence?
It can open the sentence, sit in the middle after a comma, or be tagged on at the end. Putting it at the end makes the hedge feel like an afterthought, which softens the claim further.
What is the meaning of I think?
"I think" (phrase) means used to show that you believe something but are not completely sure of it.
