Translation guide
The English verb "think" covers a wide range of mental activities. In Japanese, different words and patterns are used depending on whether you are expressing an opinion, considering something, recalling a memory, or engaging in rational thought. This guide breaks down the main uses and provides natural Japanese equivalents.
The speaker states what they believe to be true or their personal view.
The most common way to say "I think that..." in Japanese. Attach to the plain form of a clause. The subject is usually the speaker unless specified.
I think he will come.
I think this movie is interesting.
Softens the statement, making it sound less assertive. Often used when offering a tentative opinion or seeking agreement.
Expresses a cautious conjecture: "I suspect that..." or "I can't help but think that..."
The process of thinking something over, weighing options, or reflecting.
Bringing something to mind, often suddenly or with effort.
Forming a mental image or hypothesis, often about hypothetical situations.
To imagine or visualize. Transitive: 〜を想像する.
Having someone in mind, caring about them, or being considerate.
"To think of (someone)" in a caring or considerate way. Often implies emotional concern.
Engaging in profound or abstract thought.
To contemplate or meditate on deep matters. Formal and literary.
思う is more emotional, spontaneous, or opinion-based ("I feel that..."), while 考える is more logical, deliberate, and analytical ("I think about..."). Use 思う for impressions and beliefs, and 考える for problem-solving and consideration.
I think he is right. (opinion)
I think it's a good idea.
I think it's a bit expensive, though.
I think he might already know.
The general verb for "to think" in the sense of using one's mind, considering, or pondering. Transitive: 〜を考える.
I'm thinking seriously about the future.
Please let me think a little more.
"To try thinking about something" or "to give it some thought." Implies an attempt to consider.
I'll think about that proposal.
To ponder or deliberate, often with a nuance of worrying. More formal/literary.
He was thinking for a while.
To recall or remember something. Transitive: 〜を思い出す.
I can't think of his name.
I often think back to that day.
"To come to mind" or "to pop into one's head." Intransitive; the thing remembered is the subject.
A good idea came to mind.
To realize or hit upon something after thinking; "to have an inkling" or "to recall something relevant."
I can't think of anything that might be the cause.
Just think of his reaction.
Used to set up a hypothetical scenario: "If we suppose that..." or "Assuming that..."
What should we do if he doesn't come, do you think?
I'm always thinking of you.
I decided thinking of my family.
To be considerate or sympathetic toward someone; to think of others' feelings.
He always thinks of others.
To think about the meaning of life.
To be lost in deep thought, silently pondering. Very formal and literary.
He thought deeply and came up with an answer.
I think of a solution. (deliberation)
In Japanese, constantly saying と思う can sound hesitant or weak. In many contexts, especially when stating facts or strong convictions, it's more natural to omit it. For example, instead of 「明日は雨だと思う」, simply say 「明日は雨だ」 if you are sure.
It will rain tomorrow. (confident statement)
Think before you speak.
I can't think of anything.