Think Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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think

[θɪŋk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

cognitive process

To have a particular opinion, belief, or idea about someone or something. To consider or have a particular attitude towards someone or something.

Synonyms

believe, consider, feel, regard.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
think	Used as a common expression of rational thought or reasoning. I think we should leave early to avoid traffic. Do you think this dress looks good on me?
believe	Expresses a strong conviction or faith in something without needing evidence. I believe in hard work and determination. He believes that everyone deserves a second chance.
consider	Used when weighing or evaluating options before making a decision. We need to consider all possible outcomes before proceeding. She considered moving to a new city for her job.
feel	Expressing an emotional response or a personal reaction. I feel happy whenever I see my friends. He feels that the project needs more time.
regard	Often used in formal contexts to express respect or consideration; can sometimes imply judgment. She is highly regarded in her field. They regard honesty as an important value.

Examples of usage

I think that she is very talented.
He thinks that it's a waste of time.
We should think carefully before making a decision.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

reflective thought

To use your mind actively to form connected ideas, to imagine, to plan something, or to be creative.

Synonyms

conceive, contemplate, ponder, reflect.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
think	Used in general to describe the act of using one's mind to consider or reason about something. It is the most versatile and commonly used term. I think we should go to the beach tomorrow. What do you think about her new book?
contemplate	Used when considering something very carefully, often for a prolonged period. It implies deep and serious thinking. She spent hours contemplating her next career move. He contemplated the meaning of life while walking in the park.
ponder	Similar to contemplate, but generally used for reflecting deeply on specific questions or problems. It often implies weighing different considerations carefully. He pondered his chances of getting the job. She pondered over the possible outcomes of the decision.
reflect	Often used to describe thinking back on past events or experiences. It implies a degree of introspection and self-examination. He reflected on his childhood with fond memories. She took a few moments to reflect before answering the question.
conceive	Applied when forming an idea or concept in the mind. Often used in creative, intellectual, or abstract contexts. She conceived an idea for a new invention. He couldn't conceive how they managed to solve the problem.

Examples of usage

She spent hours thinking about the problem.
He thinks up new ideas all the time.

^{Context #3 | Noun}

cognitive process

An idea or opinion produced by thinking, or occurring suddenly in your mind.

Synonyms

belief, idea, notion, opinion.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
think	Use when referring to the process of considering or reflecting upon something. I need to think about what you said. Do you think we should go to the party?
idea	Appropriate when talking about a thought, suggestion or a concept that has formed in the mind. I have an idea for a new project. What a great idea to have a picnic!
notion	Use when referring to a vague or slightly formed thought or concept. She had a notion that something was wrong. The notion of time travel fascinates many people.
opinion	Suitable for expressing a personal view or judgment formed about something, which is not necessarily based on facts. In my opinion, the book was better than the movie. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion.
belief	Fit for describing a strong feeling or conviction that something is true, often without definitive proof. Her belief in fairness drives her to work for social justice. Different cultures have different beliefs about life after death.

Examples of usage

I had a sudden thought - why not go for a walk?
His thoughts on the matter were very clear.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Psychology

Cognitive psychology studies how we process information and the different ways we can think, such as critically, creatively, and analytically.
Our thoughts are linked to emotions; how we think can influence how we feel.
The act of thinking can be broken down into two types: active (deliberate) thinking and passive (automatic) thinking.

Literature

Many famous authors have explored the nature of thought, with philosophers like Descartes famously stating, 'I think, therefore I am'.
Thinking is a central theme in literature, often depicted in characters’ introspections as they navigate challenges.
Poets frequently use the act of thinking as a device for self-reflection and exploring emotions.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'Think different' became iconic in the 1990s, encouraging creative thinking and innovation.
Numerous television shows and films, such as 'The Matrix', delve into the philosophy of thought and reality.
Social media often promotes thinking about social issues, encouraging conversations about how we perceive the world.

Science

Neuroscientists have found that thinking involves complex brain processes, including neural connections and chemical signals.
Thought processes are influenced by both environmental factors and genetics, impacting cognitive abilities.
Mindfulness practices have been shown to enhance our ability to think clearly and focus better.

Origin of 'think'

Main points about word origin

The word has origins in Old English, derived from the word 'þencan', which means 'to conceive of in the mind'.
It was used to describe the act of thinking or having thoughts even in ancient times.
The transition to the modern form occurred around the 14th century.

The word 'think' originated from the Old English word 'þencan', which meant 'to conceive in the mind, consider, ponder'. Over time, the word evolved to its current form in Middle English. The concept of thinking has been integral to human existence since ancient times, with philosophers and scholars exploring the nature of thought and consciousness.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #137, this word is extremely common in English. It's a crucial part of basic vocabulary that's used constantly in both spoken and written communication, making it essential for even basic conversations.

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