penser
think
The French word 'penser' is used in very similar contexts to the English word 'think'. It can be used to express personal thoughts or opinions, ponder or consider something, or it can be used to imply intention to perform a particular action. Like its English counterpart, 'penser' can be coupled with many prepositions to articulate varying shades of nuances.
Example sentences using: penser
Je pense que tu es gentil.
I think you are kind.
This is a simple sentence expressing a personal opinion using the verb 'penser' ('think').
Je ne pense pas pouvoir le faire.
I don't think I can do it.
Here 'penser' is used in a negative construct to indicate doubt or uncertainty.
Penses-tu à moi parfois?
Do you think of me sometimes?
'Penser à' means 'to think of'. This sentence is a question about whether someone thinks of you.
Nous pensons dîner à l'extérieur ce soir.
We're thinking of dining out tonight.
'Penser' is here used to indicate considering or planning for an action - in this case, dining out.
Qu'est-ce que tu penses de ce film?
What do you think of this movie?
This is a question that seeks someone’s opinion, using 'penser de' to mean 'think of' or 'about'.
Elle pensait à ses vacances tout en travaillant.
She was thinking about her vacation while working.
In this sentence, 'pensait à' is used in the past tense to depict someone lost in their thoughts.
Je penserai à vous demain.
I will think of you tomorrow.
'Penserai' is the future tense of 'penser'. The speaker is promising to remember or think about someone in the future.
Il est important de penser avant d'agir.
It is important to think before acting.
Here, 'penser' is used within a common saying, emphasizing the importance of thoughtful planning before taking action.
Elles pensent aller en France l'année prochaine.
They are considering going to France next year.
'Pensent' is used here to show the individuals are contemplating or thinking about going to France.
Il pense toujours à son travail.
He always thinks about his job.
In this sentence, 'pense toujours à' illustrates an ongoing consideration or thought about a subject - in this case, his job.