Both verbs 思う and 考える can be translated into Portuguese as think. So the following question arises: What is the difference between these words? In this article, we will make 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 can mean to consider, believe, judge, evaluate, imagine, suppose, dream, hope, feel, desire, 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.
On the other hand, the verb kangaeru (考える) literally means to think about something, consider, ponder, reflect, come to a conclusion, plan, foresee, anticipate, hope, consider, and doubt. It is obvious that we cannot say that these words mean all of this; they are just the senses and ideas they can convey when used in a conversation or text.
Differences between 思う and 考える
omou (思う) is more subjective or emotional; it can be related to worries, 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 believe something, you 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 is 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 nominal phrase followed by と思う. Although 考える has the same meaning, it usually relates 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) become 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 to think. The verb 想う is rarely used and gives an idea and feeling of feeling and visualizing, as if seeing images in your head.
There is also the verb sonjiru (存じる) which conveys the idea of thinking, knowing, considering but also involves thinking. The verb oboeru (覚える) which means to memorize, have in mind, and decorate, can relate to thinking and relating.
This is not the first time there are two similar words or even one word with the same pronunciation and meaning, but with different ideograms. To conclude, let’s list other similar articles. We appreciate your comments and shares!
- Differences between the verb miru | 見る, 観る, 視る, 診る e 看る
- What is the difference between たくさん and 多く
- What is the difference between Kudasai and Onegai?
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