Another Word for Think: 17 Synonyms with Examples
Think is one of the most common verbs in English, covering opinions, reasoning and imagining. In formal writing a more precise verb usually makes the meaning clearer.
As a verb: have an opinion
As a verb: use the mind
As a verb: imagine or expect
- imagine
- expect
- suppose
- anticipate
- picture
Need a different word?Look up any word in the synonym finder →
How they differ
Synonyms share a meaning, not always a tone. Here is when to pick each of the main options.
- believe
- More formal and suggests a firmer opinion.
- consider
- Thinks carefully about something, or regards it in a certain way.
- reflect
- Thinks calmly and deeply, often about the past.
- ponder
- Thinks slowly and carefully, often without reaching an answer.
- reckon
- Informal, especially in British English.
- anticipate
- Expects something and often prepares for it.
Example sentences
- believe: Most teachers believe the new timetable is an improvement.
- consider: We considered three venues before choosing the community hall.
- reflect: After the match, she reflected on what had gone wrong.
- ponder: He pondered the offer for a week before replying.
- reckon: I reckon we'll finish by lunchtime.
- anticipate: Organisers anticipate around two thousand visitors.
Opposite of think
- ignore
- disregard
More from WordNet
Less common or more specialised words WordNet lists for other senses of “think”. Check the meaning before you use one.
verb: conceive, opine, guess, cogitate, remember, retrieve, recall, recollect
WordNet 3.1, Princeton University. Used under the WordNet licence.
Frequently asked questions
What is another word for “think”?
The most useful alternatives are “believe”, “consider”, “feel”, “reckon”, “hold”. For the main sense (have an opinion), “believe” is usually the closest swap.
What is the difference between “believe” and “consider”?
believe: More formal and suggests a firmer opinion. consider: Thinks carefully about something, or regards it in a certain way.
What is the opposite of “think”?
Common antonyms are “ignore”, “disregard”.