Common Mistakes with the Verb ‘think’

The verb ‘think’ is one of the most frequently used verbs in English, but it is also one of the most commonly misused. The main mistake learners make is treating ‘think’ like a simple action verb when it often expresses an opinion, a belief, or a mental process that follows specific grammar patterns. This guide directly addresses the most frequent errors with ‘think’, including incorrect past tense forms, wrong prepositions, and confusion with similar verbs, so you can use it correctly in writing, conversation, and email.

Quick Answer: How to Use ‘think’ Correctly

Use ‘think’ to express an opinion or belief. The past tense is ‘thought’ (not ‘thinked’). Do not use ‘think’ with continuous tenses for opinions (e.g., “I am thinking you are right” is wrong; say “I think you are right”). Use ‘think about’ for considering something and ‘think of’ for having an idea or opinion. Avoid using ‘think’ with ‘to’ + infinitive (e.g., “I think to go” is wrong; say “I think I will go”).

Why ‘think’ Is Tricky

The verb ‘think’ is irregular. Its three main forms are: think – thought – thought. Many learners mistakenly add -ed to form the past tense, saying ‘thinked’ instead of ‘thought’. This is the most basic and noticeable error. Beyond that, ‘think’ does not follow the same patterns as verbs like ‘believe’ or ‘consider’ in every situation. It also has specific uses with prepositions and in formal versus informal contexts.

Common Mistake 1: Using ‘thinked’ Instead of ‘thought’

This is the most frequent error. Because most English verbs add -ed for the past tense, learners often say ‘thinked’. The correct past tense and past participle is ‘thought’.

• Incorrect: I thinked about your idea yesterday.
• Correct: I thought about your idea yesterday.
• Incorrect: She has thinked about it many times.
• Correct: She has thought about it many times.

In formal writing, such as emails or reports, using ‘thought’ correctly is essential for clarity. In conversation, the error is immediately noticeable and can confuse the listener.

Common Mistake 2: Using Continuous Tenses for Opinions

When ‘think’ means “believe” or “have an opinion,” it is a stative verb and should not be used in continuous (progressive) tenses. However, when ‘think’ means “actively consider” or “use your mind,” it can be used in continuous tenses.

• Opinion (stative – no continuous): I think this is a good idea. (Not: I am thinking this is a good idea.)
• Active consideration (dynamic – continuous possible): I am thinking about what to do next.

In email, saying “I am thinking this is correct” sounds unnatural. Instead, write “I think this is correct.” In conversation, the distinction helps avoid sounding hesitant or uncertain.

Common Mistake 3: Confusing ‘think of’ and ‘think about’

These two phrases are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference. ‘Think of’ is used for having an idea or opinion. ‘Think about’ is used for considering something more deeply or for a longer time.

• Think of: What do you think of the new policy? (Asking for an opinion.)
• Think about: I need to think about your proposal. (Considering it carefully.)

In formal contexts, such as a business email, using the correct phrase shows precision. For example: “Please think about the budget implications” (consider carefully) versus “What do you think of the deadline?” (opinion).

Common Mistake 4: Using ‘think’ with ‘to’ + Infinitive

Many learners say “I think to go” or “I think to call him.” This is incorrect. Instead, use ‘think’ with a that-clause or use ‘think about’ + gerund.

• Incorrect: I think to visit my parents this weekend.
• Correct: I think I will visit my parents this weekend. (that-clause)
• Correct: I am thinking about visiting my parents this weekend. (think about + gerund)

In conversation, this error can make your speech sound unnatural. In writing, it is a clear grammatical mistake.

Comparison Table: ‘think’ vs. Similar Verbs

Natural Examples of ‘think’ in Context

Here are examples showing how ‘think’ is used naturally in different situations.

• Conversation: “I think we should leave now. What do you think?”
• Email (formal): “I think the report is ready for review. Please let me know your thoughts.”
• Email (informal): “I think the meeting went well. Let’s catch up tomorrow.”
• Writing: “She thought about the problem for a long time before deciding.”
• Everyday use: “I don’t think it will rain today.”

Common Mistakes with ‘think’ – Summary List

• Mistake: “I thinked about it.” → Correct: “I thought about it.”
• Mistake: “I am thinking you are right.” → Correct: “I think you are right.”
• Mistake: “What do you think about this idea?” (when asking for opinion) → Better: “What do you think of this idea?”
• Mistake: “I think to call him.” → Correct: “I think I will call him.” or “I am thinking about calling him.”
• Mistake: “I didn’t thought about it.” → Correct: “I didn’t think about it.” (Use base form after ‘did’.)

Better Alternatives to ‘think’ for Nuance

Sometimes ‘think’ is too simple. Using a more specific verb can improve your writing and speaking.

• Believe: Use for strong conviction. “I believe this is the best solution.” (Stronger than ‘think’.)
• Consider: Use for careful evaluation. “Please consider my proposal.” (More formal.)
• Suppose: Use for assumptions. “I suppose he will arrive soon.” (Less certain than ‘think’.)
• Assume: Use when you take something for granted. “I assume the meeting is still on.” (Common in emails.)
• Reckon: Informal, common in British English. “I reckon it will rain.” (Casual conversation.)

Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding

Complete each sentence with the correct form of ‘think’ or choose the correct option.

1. Yesterday, I __________ about your suggestion. (think / thought / thinked)
2. Right now, I __________ about what to cook for dinner. (think / am thinking / thought)
3. What do you __________ the new movie? (think of / think about / think)
4. She __________ that the train would be late. (thinked / thought / has think)

Answers

1. thought
2. am thinking (active consideration)
3. think of (asking for opinion)
4. thought

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘think’

1. Is it ever correct to say “I am thinking”?

Yes, when you mean you are actively using your mind to consider something. For example: “I am thinking about my vacation plans.” But not for opinions: “I am thinking this is good” is incorrect.

2. What is the difference between “I think so” and “I think not”?

“I think so” means you believe something is true. “I think not” is a formal or old-fashioned way to say you believe something is false. In modern conversation, people usually say “I don’t think so.”

3. Can I use ‘think’ in the past perfect tense?

Yes. The past perfect is “had thought.” Example: “I had thought about it before you called.” This is common in storytelling and formal writing.

4. Is “I think to myself” correct?

Yes, this is a fixed expression meaning you are having a silent thought. Example: “I thought to myself, this is a great idea.” It is natural in both conversation and writing.

Final Tips for Using ‘think’ Correctly

To avoid mistakes with ‘think’, remember these three rules. First, always use ‘thought’ for the past tense and past participle. Second, do not use continuous tenses when ‘think’ means “believe.” Third, use ‘think of’ for opinions and ‘think about’ for careful consideration. Practice these patterns in your daily writing and speaking, and you will sound more natural and accurate. For more help with irregular verbs, explore our guides on Past Tense Forms and Past Participle Forms. If you have further questions, visit our FAQ page or contact us.