Synonym Nuance VS
How to say "Think" in Japanese
Both words can translate to "think", but which should you choose?
Japanese Option A
考える
かんがえる (kangaeru)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
VS
Japanese Option B
思う
おもう (omou)
N4 / CEFR Syllabus
Nuance Contrast & Translation Difference
When translating "think" into Japanese, you must choose carefully between 考える and 思う.
In Japanese, 考える (かんがえる (kangaeru)) is typically associated with "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.
On the other hand, 思う (おもう (omou)) maps to "to think, to feel" (Syllabus Level: N4) and represents This verb is used to express one's thoughts, opinions, or feelings. It often translates to 'I think that...' or 'I feel...'. It can also mean 'to believe' or 'to suppose'. The polite form is 思います. A literal translation of "think" can often sound unnatural to native Japanese speakers if mixed up!
Bilingual Context for "考える"
将来について考えます。
I think about my future.
Bilingual Context for "思う"
私は日本語は面白いと思います。
I think Japanese is interesting.
Nuance Mastery Quiz
Which Japanese word perfectly fits this blank space?
Fill in the blank: "将来について考えます。" (Meaning: "I think about my future.")
🎉 Correct Answer!
Remember: "考える" fits here because it means "to think; to consider; to plan" in the context of: "I think about my future.". "思う" represents "to think, to feel".