Common Mistakes with the Verb ‘think’

The verb ‘think’ is one of the most frequently used verbs in English, yet it is also one of the most commonly misused. The core problem is that learners often confuse its forms, use the wrong tense, or apply it in contexts where a different verb would be more natural. This guide directly addresses the most frequent errors with ‘think’, explains the correct forms, and gives you practical examples for real conversations, emails, and study situations.

Quick Answer: The Three Forms of ‘think’

Before we look at mistakes, here is the basic structure you need to remember:

• Base form: think (used for present tense and infinitive)
• Past tense: thought (used for completed actions in the past)
• Past participle: thought (used with auxiliary verbs like ‘have’, ‘has’, ‘had’)

The past tense and past participle are the same: thought. This is an irregular verb, so you cannot add ‘-ed’. The most common mistake is using ‘thinked’ or ‘thinked’ instead of ‘thought’.

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

This is the most basic and frequent error. Learners often apply the regular ‘-ed’ rule to ‘think’, producing ‘thinked’. This is always incorrect.

Incorrect vs. Correct

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

Natural Examples

• “I thought you were coming to the meeting.” (past tense)
• “He has thought carefully before making a decision.” (present perfect)
• “They had thought the project was finished, but there was more work.” (past perfect)

Common Mistake 2: Confusing ‘think’ with ‘believe’ or ‘suppose’

In English, ‘think’ is often used to express an opinion or a belief. However, it can sound too informal or weak in certain contexts, especially in writing or formal emails. Learners sometimes use ‘think’ when a stronger or more precise verb is better.

Comparison Table: ‘think’ vs. ‘believe’ vs. ‘suppose’

When to use it

• Use think for everyday opinions: “I think this restaurant is good.”
• Use believe for stronger or more formal statements: “I believe this policy is unfair.”
• Use suppose when you are guessing or not certain: “I suppose we could try a different approach.”

Better Alternatives

If you are writing a formal email, consider replacing ‘think’ with ‘believe’, ‘consider’, or ‘am of the opinion that’ for a more professional tone. For example:

• Casual: “I think we should change the deadline.”
• Formal: “I believe we should consider changing the deadline.”

Common Mistake 3: Using the Wrong Tense with ‘think’

Learners often use the present tense ‘think’ when they need the past tense ‘thought’, or vice versa. This can confuse the timeline of your message.

Incorrect vs. Correct

• Incorrect: I think about it yesterday, but I forgot to tell you.
• Correct: I thought about it yesterday, but I forgot to tell you.
• Incorrect: She thought it is a good idea right now.
• Correct: She thinks it is a good idea right now.

Natural Examples

• “I think you are right.” (present opinion)
• “I thought you were right, but now I am not sure.” (past opinion, now changed)
• “He thinks the train leaves at 3 PM.” (present belief)
• “He thought the train left at 3 PM, but it was delayed.” (past belief, now corrected)

Common Mistake 4: Using ‘think’ with ‘to’ Instead of a Clause

In English, we do not usually say “I think to go” or “I think to call him”. Instead, we use a clause with ‘that’ (often omitted) or an infinitive with a different structure.

Incorrect vs. Correct

• Incorrect: I think to call him later.
• Correct: I think I will call him later. OR I am thinking of calling him later.
• Incorrect: She thinks to buy a new car.
• Correct: She thinks she should buy a new car. OR She is thinking about buying a new car.

Better Alternatives

Instead of “think to + verb”, use these patterns:

• “I think I will + verb” (for future intention)
• “I am thinking of + verb-ing” (for considering an action)
• “I think that + clause” (for an opinion)

Common Mistake 5: Overusing ‘think’ in Formal Writing

In academic or professional writing, repeating ‘think’ can make your writing sound weak or repetitive. Use synonyms or rephrase your sentences.

Better Alternatives

• Instead of “I think this is important,” try “This is important because…”
• Instead of “I think the data shows,” try “The data suggests…”
• Instead of “I think we need,” try “It is necessary to…”

Natural Examples

• Weak: “I think the report is incomplete.”
• Stronger: “The report appears incomplete.”
• Weak: “I think we should consider other options.”
• Stronger: “Other options should be considered.”

Mini Practice: Test Your Knowledge

Fill in the blanks with the correct form of ‘think’ or a better alternative.

1. Yesterday, I __________ about your suggestion. (past tense)
2. She __________ the movie is boring. (present tense)
3. They have __________ about moving to a new city. (past participle)
4. In a formal email, instead of “I think we should,” you could write “__________ we should.”

Answers

1. thought
2. thinks
3. thought
4. I believe (or “It is my opinion that”)

FAQ: Common Questions About ‘think’

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

Yes. “I am thinking” is the present continuous tense. Use it when you are in the middle of the action of thinking, or when you are considering something right now. For example: “I am thinking about what to eat for dinner.” It is different from “I think,” which expresses a general opinion.

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

“I think so” means you agree or believe something is true. “I think not” means you disagree or believe something is false. “I think not” is more formal and less common in everyday conversation. In casual speech, people often say “I don’t think so” instead.

3. Can I use “thought” as a noun?

Yes. “Thought” can also be a noun meaning an idea or the process of thinking. For example: “I had a thought about the project.” or “She was lost in thought.” This is a different use from the verb form.

4. Why do some people say “I think” at the beginning of every sentence?

This is a common habit, especially in conversation. It can make you sound unsure or hesitant. To sound more confident, try removing “I think” and stating your opinion directly. For example, instead of “I think this is a good plan,” say “This is a good plan.”

Final Tips for Using ‘think’ Correctly

To avoid common mistakes with ‘think’, remember these three rules:

• Always use thought for past tense and past participle—never ‘thinked’.
• Match the tense to the time: present for now, past for before.
• In formal writing, replace ‘think’ with stronger verbs like ‘believe’ or ‘consider’.

For more help with verb forms, visit our Past Tense Forms and Past Participle Forms sections. If you have questions, check our FAQ or contact us.