Think: meaning, definitions and examples

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?

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.

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.

Expressing an emotional response or a personal reaction.

• I feel happy whenever I see my friends.
• He feels that the project needs more time.

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.

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?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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?

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!

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.

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.

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.