Definition of thinknext

Synonym Chooser

How is the word think distinct from other similar verbs?

Some common synonyms of think are conceive, envisage, envision, fancy, imagine, and realize. While all these words mean "to form an idea of," think implies the entrance of an idea into one's mind with or without deliberate consideration or reflection.

I just thought of a good joke

When is it sensible to use conceive instead of think?

Although the words conceive and think have much in common, conceive suggests the forming and bringing forth and usually developing of an idea, plan, or design.

conceived of a new marketing approach

How do envisage and envision relate to one another, in the sense of think?

Both envisage and envision imply a conceiving or imagining that is especially clear or detailed.

envisaged a totally computerized operation
envisioned a cure for the disease

When is fancy a more appropriate choice than think?

The synonyms fancy and think are sometimes interchangeable, but fancy suggests an imagining often unrestrained by reality but spurred by desires.

fancied himself a super athlete

When might imagine be a better fit than think?

The words imagine and think can be used in similar contexts, but imagine stresses a visualization.

imagine you're at the beach

When can realize be used instead of think?

In some situations, the words realize and think are roughly equivalent. However, realize stresses a grasping of the significance of what is conceived or imagined.

realized the enormity of the task ahead

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of think Or add greenery through art—think lush landscape photos or paintings featuring forests or tropical foliage. Petra Guglielmetti, Better Homes & Gardens, 22 May 2026 In fact, when blind-tasting Oregon Pinot Noir, many wine experts incorrectly think the wine was made in Burgundy. Mike Desimone, Robb Report, 22 May 2026 This idea becomes especially important when thinking about long-term growth. James Nelson, Forbes.com, 22 May 2026 This suggests that Sin Nombre virus may be more widespread in the region than previously thought. Melissa Rudy, FOXNews.com, 22 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for think
Recent Examples of Synonyms for think
Verb
  • Many school leaders believe phones have caused a negative impact on students’ learning; therefore, schools should embrace policies to restrict access to phones during the school day.
    Chicago Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 24 May 2026
  • Word is that the streamer believes the Parisian actress has a shot in the Oscar Best Actress race.
    Anthony D'Alessandro, Deadline, 23 May 2026
Verb
  • There, scientists guess that lower temperatures are causing carbon dioxide to freeze out of the atmosphere, with the CO2 falling as dry-ice snow and pulling dust down with it.
    Meghan Bartels, Scientific American, 14 May 2026
  • Redistricting shouldn’t leave people guessing, residents deserve clarity, access, and confidence in who represents them and how to engage with county government.
    Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 14 May 2026
Verb
  • Should one ever want to imagine what a future boutique resort could look like on the Moon, or Mars, a stay at Echo could be the most accurate preview.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 21 May 2026
  • Growing up in India, Shubhangi Seth had always imagined her dream wedding on the mesmerizing shores of Italy’s Lake Como, ringed by stunning alpine peaks and piercing blue water.
    Rhea Mogul, CNN Money, 21 May 2026
Verb
  • China is also planning to expand the space station with new modules and considering opening the outpost to commercial activities.
    Andrew Jones, Space.com, 24 May 2026
  • The couple reportedly considered holding the wedding at the White House, but ultimately opted for a more low-key celebration amid ongoing tensions due to the war in Iran.
    Kelly McGreal , Jessica Mekles, FOXNews.com, 24 May 2026
Verb
  • The game itself could barely have felt less consequential in its vibe if it had been played in the first week of June in front of 60,000 neutrals in Manchester United shirts in an overseas stadium.
    Steve Madeley, New York Times, 18 May 2026
  • Welina Terrace, which is only open for dinner, feels a bit fancier; low-lit with live music and epic views of the bay.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 18 May 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Think.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/think. Accessed 24 May. 2026.

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