Common Mistakes with the Verb ‘think’
The verb ‘think’ is one of the most frequently used verbs in business English, yet it is also one of the most commonly misused. Many learners confuse its tense forms, use it in the wrong context, or apply it where a more precise verb would be better. This guide directly addresses the most frequent errors with ‘think’ and shows you how to use it correctly in emails, meetings, and everyday conversation.
Quick Answer: The Core Rules for ‘think’
To avoid the most common mistakes, remember these three rules:
- Use the correct past form: The past tense of ‘think’ is ‘thought’, not ‘thinked’. The past participle is also ‘thought’.
- Don’t use ‘think’ for future plans: Use ‘plan to’, ‘intend to’, or ‘will’ instead of ‘think to’ for definite future actions.
- Choose the right synonym: In formal writing or when you need to be precise, ‘believe’, ‘consider’, or ‘assume’ may be better than ‘think’.
Mistake 1: Using ‘thinked’ Instead of ‘thought’
This is the most basic error. ‘Think’ is an irregular verb, so its past tense and past participle are not formed by adding ‘-ed’.
| Base Form | Past Tense | Past Participle |
|---|---|---|
| think | thought | thought |
Incorrect: I thinked about your proposal yesterday.
Correct: I thought about your proposal yesterday.
Natural examples
- She thought the meeting was at 3 PM, but it was at 2 PM.
- We have thought carefully about your request.
- He had thought the project would be finished by now.
Mistake 2: Using ‘think to’ for Future Plans
In many languages, the equivalent of ‘think to’ is used to express future intentions. In English, this sounds unnatural.
Incorrect: I think to send the report tomorrow.
Correct: I plan to send the report tomorrow.
Correct: I will send the report tomorrow.
Correct: I intend to send the report tomorrow.
When to use it
Use ‘think about + verb-ing’ to express that you are considering something, not that you have decided to do it.
- I am thinking about changing the supplier.
- We are thinking about expanding into Asia.
Better alternatives
For definite future actions, use these instead of ‘think to’:
- Plan to – for something you have decided.
- Intend to – for something you aim to do.
- Will – for a simple future statement.
Mistake 3: Using ‘think’ When a More Precise Verb Is Needed
In business communication, ‘think’ can be too vague. Choosing a more specific verb improves clarity and professionalism.
| Situation | Better verb than ‘think’ | Example |
|---|---|---|
| You have a strong opinion | believe | I believe this strategy will work. |
| You are evaluating options | consider | Please consider the budget constraints. |
| You are making a guess | assume | I assume the client will approve. |
| You are concluding | conclude | We conclude that the data supports our plan. |
Formal vs. informal tone
- Informal (email to a colleague): I think we should delay the launch.
- Formal (email to a client): We believe a delay would be in everyone’s best interest.
Common mistakes
Incorrect: I think it is a good idea to invest now. (Too vague for a formal proposal)
Better: We recommend investing now based on the market analysis.
Mistake 4: Confusing ‘think of’ and ‘think about’
These two phrasal verbs are often used interchangeably, but there is a subtle difference.
- Think of – used when an idea or image comes to mind. It is often more spontaneous.
- Think about – used when you consider something carefully or for a period of time.
Natural examples
- Can you think of any solutions to this problem? (spontaneous idea)
- I need to think about your offer before I decide. (careful consideration)
When to use it
In business emails, ‘think about’ is more common when discussing decisions. ‘Think of’ is more common when brainstorming or recalling information.
Mistake 5: Using ‘think’ in the Wrong Tense for Ongoing Actions
When you are currently considering something, use the present continuous tense.
Incorrect: I think about your proposal right now.
Correct: I am thinking about your proposal right now.
Natural examples
- I am thinking about your suggestion.
- We are thinking of hiring a new manager.
- She was thinking about the budget when the phone rang.
Comparison Table: ‘think’ vs. Common Alternatives
| Verb | Meaning | Formality | Best used for |
|---|---|---|---|
| think | general opinion or idea | neutral | everyday conversation, informal emails |
| believe | strong personal conviction | formal | proposals, presentations, written reports |
| consider | careful evaluation | formal | decision-making, analysis |
| assume | accept without proof | neutral | making logical guesses |
| conclude | final judgment after reasoning | formal | reports, summaries, conclusions |
Mini Practice: Test Your Understanding
Choose the correct option for each sentence.
1. I _____ about your proposal all morning.
a) thought
b) have been thinking
c) thinked
Answer: b) have been thinking
2. We _____ that the merger will be successful.
a) think to
b) believe
c) think of
Answer: b) believe
3. Can you _____ a better way to do this?
a) think about
b) think of
c) think to
Answer: b) think of
4. She _____ the meeting was at 10 AM, but it was at 11 AM.
a) thinked
b) thought
c) has think
Answer: b) thought
FAQ: Common Questions About ‘think’
1. Is it ever correct to say ‘I think to’?
No, ‘I think to’ is not standard English. Use ‘I plan to’, ‘I intend to’, or ‘I will’ for future actions. Use ‘I am thinking of’ or ‘I am thinking about’ for current consideration.
2. What is the difference between ‘I think’ and ‘I believe’?
‘I think’ is more neutral and can express a simple opinion. ‘I believe’ is stronger and implies personal conviction. In formal writing, ‘I believe’ is often preferred because it sounds more confident.
3. Can I use ‘think’ in the past perfect tense?
Yes. The past perfect is ‘had thought’. Example: “I had thought the deadline was Friday, but it was actually Thursday.”
4. Is ‘thinked’ ever acceptable in business English?
No. ‘Thinked’ is always incorrect. The correct past tense and past participle is ‘thought’. Using ‘thinked’ will make you sound unprofessional.
For more help with verb tenses, visit our Past Tense Forms and Past Participle Forms sections. If you have further questions, see our FAQ or contact us.
