Blogging

Think / Know

Non-native speakers of English often have a hard time differentiating between the expressions think and know. Today we'll explore how to use them correctly, along with the related expression, sure.

Think

– usually less certain than know; also, can be used in the past tense for things that turns out to be right or wrong

1) have a fact in mind that you’re not totally sure of

“I think they’re closed on Sundays – we should call before we go.”

2) (past tense) have an opinion or information that turned out to be wrong

“I thought I put my purse on the table, but it’s gone.”

3) (past tense) have an opinion or information that turned out to be correct

“John? Oh hi! I thought that was you when I saw your jacket.”

Know

– used in the past tense for things that turns out to be right; never used for things in the past that turned out to be wrong

1) have a fact in mind that you’re sure of

“I know we’ll succeed somehow.”

2) (religious) beliefs

“I know there’s a God – it just makes sense.”

3) (past tense) have an opinion or information that turned out to be correct

“I didn’t know how hard it was to be a parent until I had my own kids.”

Sure

– when you want to emphasize how certain you are about something, use sure

“Don’t worry – I’m sure you’ll find a great job sooner or later.”

“I’m sure I left my purse right here. Someone must have taken it.”

Dialogue: A husband and wife are driving to a party.

Wife: How much farther is it?

Husband: I don’t know… maybe ten minutes?

W: Do you think we have time to stop by the store?

H: Yes, actually. I don’t think we have enough gas to make it there and back, so I was just going to stop by the gas station.

W: Good, ‘cause I forgot to get a gift.

H: I thought you got some snacks this morning at the grocery store.

W: Yeah, they didn’t have anything I liked.

H: The grocery store didn’t have anything, but you think the gas station will?

W: Yep.

H: Okay…

W: You can’t turn left here.

H: I know. I’m not turning left.

W: But that’s the gas station right there.

H: There’s another one on this side of the street. Just let me drive.

W: Huh. I had no idea there was one up here.

H: Okay. Run inside while I fill up the car.

(a few minutes later)

H: I thought you were going to get some snacks.

W: Yeah – they didn’t have anything I liked.

H: Ha! I knew this would happen.

W: What?

H: You always think the next place will be perfect, but you never settle on anything.

W: Yep. That’s why I’m awesome at picking things.

H: Well, we have to get something.

W: Okay, let’s go to a real store.

H: You know what, I think Tom said he was bringing chips. Maybe we should just get some dip.

W: Oh, I don’t think you want any dip from this place. Everything is all covered in dust.

H: Look, I don’t want to be a jerk, but I think you just need to pick something and get it over with.

W: Fine. But I’m telling everyone at the party that you’re the one who chose the gift.

H: I’m sure they won’t care.