A comprehensive guide on the difference between the French verbs "penser" and "croire," including usage, meaning, and example sentences.
Understanding the difference between penser and croire is key to expressing thoughts and beliefs accurately in French. Both verbs relate to the mind but serve distinct purposes: penser often means "to think" or "to have an opinion," while croire means "to believe" or "to trust" something is true.
Penser is used for forming opinions, reflecting, or considering something. It can also mean "to intend" or "to plan" when followed by an infinitive.
Croire is used for believing in something, accepting something as true, or trusting someone. It can also be used with indirect speech to report what someone else believes.
Both verbs can be followed by clauses introduced by que (that), infinitives, or direct objects, but their meanings differ.
- Penser que... → to think that...
- Croire que... → to believe that...
When asking for an opinion or belief:
- Que penses-tu de...? → What do you think about...?
- Que crois-tu...? → What do you believe...?
Penser:
- Je pense que tu as raison. (I think you are right.)
- Je pensais partir tôt. (I was thinking of leaving early.)
- Que penses-tu de ce film? (What do you think of this movie?)
Croire:
- Je crois qu’il viendra demain. (I believe he will come tomorrow.)
- Je ne crois pas en la magie. (I don’t believe in magic.)
- Crois-tu son histoire? (Do you believe his story?)
In the sentence "Je crois qu’il viendra demain," what does "croire" convey?
A belief or trust that something will happen.
"Croire" expresses belief or trust in the future event, not merely an opinion or fact.
- Penser à... → to think about...
- Penser de... → to have an opinion about...
- Croire en... → to believe in...
- Croire à... → to believe in (often something more abstract)
What does the French expression "croire en..." mean?
to believe in... (often with a sense of faith or trust)
"Croire en..." expresses belief, faith, or trust in someone or something, often beyond mere opinion.
| Aspect | Penser | Croire |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | to think, consider, intend | to believe, trust, have faith |
| Usage | opinions, reflections, plans | beliefs, convictions, trust |
| Followed by | que, infinitive, penser à/de | que, infinitive, croire en/à |
| Asking question | Que penses-tu...? | Que crois-tu...? |
Last updated: Thu Jun 12, 2025
