The verb think means to have an idea, opinion, or belief about something. It is an irregular verb with the past tense and past participle form thought.
Forms and Usage
Think changes form depending on the tense:
| Tense | Form | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Present | think / thinks | I think you’re right. |
| Past | thought | She thought about the problem. |
| Past Participle | thought | They have thought of a solution. |
| Present Participle | thinking | He is thinking deeply. |
- Use think for present and general statements.
- Use thought for past actions or completed thoughts.
- Use thought (past participle) with have/has/had for perfect tenses.
- Use thinking (present participle) for continuous actions.
Usage Patterns
Think is often followed by:
| Pattern | Example |
|---|---|
| think + that + clause | I think that it will rain. |
| think + about + noun/gerund | She is thinking about her future. |
| think + of + noun/gerund | Have you thought of a nickname? |
| think + + question word | I think where he went is a mystery. |
| think + to + infinitive | I thought to call you later. (less common) |
- think that introduces a clause with a fact or opinion.
- think about means to consider or ponder.
- think of can mean to recall or come up with an idea.
- think + question word introduces indirect questions.
Which pattern of 'think' introduces a clause with a fact or opinion?
think + that + clause
'Think + that + clause' introduces a clause that expresses a fact or opinion.
Example Sentences
| Tense | English Sentence | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| Present | I think it’s a good idea. | General opinion. |
| Past | We thought the movie was boring. | Past belief. |
| Present Perfect | She has thought about quitting. | Completed consideration. |
| Past Perfect | They had thought the test was easy. | Past action before another past action. |
| Present Continuous | He is thinking about the problem now. | Ongoing mental activity. |
| Simple Future | I will think it over tonight. | Future consideration. |
Summary
- think = have an opinion or idea
- Past tense and past participle = thought
- Use think about to consider
- Use think of to recall or create ideas
- Use that to introduce opinions or beliefs
- Use question words for indirect questions
Which phrase means to consider something carefully?
think about
'Think about' is used when you consider or ponder something.
Conclusion
The verb think helps you express what’s going on in your mind, from simple opinions to deep reflection.
Flashcards (1 of 6)
- Tense: Present
- Explanation: General opinion.
- English Sentence: I think it’s a good idea.
Last updated: Wed Jun 18, 2025
