Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Think" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "think", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
思います
おもいます (omoimasu)
N5 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
考える
かんがえる (kangaeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "think" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 思います and 考える.
In Japanese, 思います (おもいます (omoimasu)) is typically associated with "to think" (Syllabus Level: N5) and represents Verb, polite form. Used to express one's thoughts, opinions, or beliefs. Often followed by と. The dictionary form is 思う.
On the other hand, 考える (かんがえる (kangaeru)) maps to "to think; to consider; to plan" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents A common verb used for intellectual processes like thinking, considering possibilities, or planning. Often followed by と. A literal translation of "think" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "思います"
これはいい本だと思います。
I think this is a good book.
Bilingual Context for "考える"
将来について考えます。
I think about my future.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "これはいい本だと ＿＿＿ 。" (Meaning: "I think this is a good book.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "思います" fits here because it means "to think" in the context of: "I think this is a good book.". "考える" represents "to think; to consider; to plan".