Both verbs 思う and 考える can be translated into Portuguese as think. So a question arises: What is the difference between these words? In this article, we will provide a complete analysis of the meaning of these words.
First, we have the verb omou (思う) which literally means to think, but depending on its use, it can mean to consider, believe, judge, evaluate, imagine, suppose, dream, hope, feel, wish, want, recall, and remember. There is also a noun 思い which means thought, imagination, mind, heart, desire, expectation, hope, love, affection, feelings, emotions, and experiences.
The verb kangaeru (考える) literally means to think about something, to consider, to ponder, to reflect, to reach a conclusion, to plan, to foresee, to anticipate, to expect, to consider, and to doubt. It is obvious that we cannot say these words mean all of that; they are just the meanings and ideas that they can convey when used in a conversation or text.
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Differences between 思う and 考える
The omou (思う) is more subjective or emotional, it can be related to concerns, hopes, affection, assumption, and imagination. It involves opinions, you think with your heart and not with logic. On the other hand, kangaeru (考える) is a more objective and logical thought. It involves examining pros and cons, thinking with your head.
When you think or think something, have a certain subjective opinion, you use omoi as in the sentence below:
- おいしいと思う
- oishii to omou
- I think it's delicious
When the speaker wants to express a personal opinion or thought, they can use a verb in the simple form, an adjective, or a noun phrase followed by と思う. Although 考える has the same meaning, it is usually related to planning. As in the example below:
- 将来、医者なろうと考える
- shourai isha ni narouto kangaeru
- I think about (plan to) be a doctor in the future
other ways of thinking
There is also another way to write omou (思う) using another kanji (想う) that has the same meaning of thinking. The verb 想う is rarely used and conveys an idea and feeling of sensing and visualizing, as if one is seeing images in their head.
There is also the verb sonjiru (存じる) which conveys the idea of thinking, knowing, considering but also involves reflection. The verb oboeru (覚える) which means to memorize, to have in mind, and to decorate, may relate to thinking and associating.
This is not the first time that there are two similar words or even a word with the same pronunciation and meaning, but with different ideograms. Finally, let's list other similar articles. We appreciate your comments and shares!
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